Letters to the Editor
Words of thanks
Dear Independent,Just a few words to say thank you and well done to The Independent and Torbert Macdonald, Jr., for publishing "A bridge too far?" (July 19 edition). The health of our watersheds is an important issue, and one that needs to be addressed. What an exhilarating sight it would be to see the Cape Neddick River returned to its former self. Hopefully I'll live to see a step in that direction
Chris Stevens
Cape Neddick
Plan changes questioned
Dear Independent,Do you know what's happening regarding proposed amendments to the Comprehensive Plan?
York town officials are proposing substantial changes to the Comprehensive Plan. There has been no opportunity for active public participation in writing these amendments. This is a drastic change from the past, when dozens of residents and property owners participated in the process of developing the Comprehensive Plan.
The proposed amendments delete much of the detailed guidance that is currently provided to the town planner and the Planning Board. For example, they delete guidance for some lot sizes, sewer requirements, setbacks, specifics for areas of town, summary of zoning districts and vision for 2010. This encourages arbitrary decisions and actions by boards and town officials without much public input. The writing of major changes should be a process involving public participation, not just a handful showing up at hearings, essentially after the fact.
The recommended amendments as proposed are not worthy of approval by the voters. The Planning Board and selectmen have been questioned on this, but have not yet responded positively to the requests for alternative action. If you worked on the previous development of the Comprehensive Plan, or agree that the public should be more involved in rewriting the plan, please review the amendments now being proposed and take appropriate action.
Clifford Estes
York
Review moves artist
Dear Independent,I have always enjoyed Rose Safran's art reviews. I was especially pleased and moved by her review of my current showcase at the Barn Gallery in Ogunquit in the July 12 issue. She articulated the theme, global warming, of my latest work in a new and effective way.
There are many active and interesting artists working in the York-Ogunquit area. We appreciate Rose's reviews and comments on all the arts.
Nancy R. Davison
York Beach
Send your letters to the Editor at PO Box 6, York, ME 03909 or via email to editor@yorkindependent.net. Deadline for publication is 12:00 noon on the Monday prior to that week's publication
