Dear Editor:

The news that Paul Coulombe will cancel the plans he had for the east side of Boothbay Harbor is very disappointing. The tourism industry, including hotels, restaurants, and marinas, is important to the financial health and future of the town. We really need the influx of investments Mr. Coulombe will provide to bring more tourist revenue, not only to the places he owns but to businesses across the peninsula.

As we see it, there is no one else willing or able to make the kind of investment that Mr. Coulombe wants to make. The board of selectmen and the planning board need to evaluate the zoning proposal based on the merits of the proposal rather than who is making that proposal. It is difficult for us to understand why the town would not want to change the zoning for that area of the east side to reflect what the area is actually being used for now, rather than hope that someday someone will want to add a maritime-related business there. Those of us who support positive change and appreciate the opportunities that Mr. Coulombe has offered need to speak up now and let him and the town know how we feel.

Mike and Dimsie McBride

Boothbay Harbor