letter to the editor

Let’s take a deep breath

Tue, 11/21/2017 - 7:45am

Dear Editor:

On Nov. 9, the Boothbay Board of Appeals affirmed that CMBG met all the requirements of the zoning ordinance, while at the same time rescinding its right to operate in any way within the watershed overlay zone in which it has operated for over a decade. Although there might be a few who wish to see the Gardens disappear altogether, I can't believe that the majority of us feel this way.

This controversy has divided our community, pitting friend against friend and neighbor against neighbor. The angry accusations, personal attacks, and polarization that we have seen and experienced do not reflect well on us. I am hopeful that we can all step back, take a deep breath, then find a way to work together to find a solution to this problem.

I want to focus on the positive ways in which CMBG has contributed to our community. CMBG has helped to boost the economic health of the region. As an example, it has allowed local businesses to extend their season and increase their profitability. CMBG has hired full-time staff and will hire more. Other recent business development in the region has failed to do that. CMBG youth programs are helping to raise a new generation of environmentally aware citizens. Children are learning about the importance of bees and monarch butterflies to biodiversity. More outreach to the children of our community should be encouraged. Other programs, lectures, and workshops focusing on a diverse range of topics are an important educational resource.

CMBG is a boon to our region, not a burden. Let's find a way to cooperate and preserve what CMBG has to offer now and in the future.

Stephanie Bacon

East Boothbay