Dear Editor:

We have been year-round residents on the east side of Boothbay Harbor since 2004. We were attracted to this location because of its proximity to the harbor. We are less than ¾ mile from the footbridge and walk, ride our bikes or drive on Atlantic Avenue twice a day, virtually every day of the year. We enjoy the views that we currently have of the working waterfront and the traditional, old Maine flavor. In our opinion, this is what attracts people, both residents and tourists, to Boothbay Harbor. However, the current landscape also includes condos and large resorts that block the view, look very much out of place and for nine plus months of the year, sit empty.

We are very concerned about the proposed zoning changes that will be voted on May 3. We do not want to see an increase in the allowable height for construction nor do we want to see any further construction of large resorts or luxury rentals. Taller buildings along the waterfront will further obstruct views and detract from the beauty and historic character of the harbor.

We would hope that those writing letters of support for this zoning ordinance change from their own private piece of paradise on Southport, East Boothbay, off peninsula or even out of state might consider for a moment, looking out their front window, how they would feel if such a zoning change that includes increasing current building height restrictions by an additional five feet was proposed to take place in front of their home.

We hope Boothbay Harbor residents will consider carefully the long-term consequences should this proposed zoning change pass. Decades ago, the residents of Boothbay Harbor, the planning board and select board debated and adopted our current height restrictions of 30 feet. This was done for a reason.

Liz and Rob Lussier

Boothbay Harbor