Dear Editor:

I am writing to voice my concern about the recent negative publicity associated with the initiative to rezone the east side of the harbor. Having seen several properties on the east side of the harbor fall into disrepair under the limitations of the existing zoning --- which made preexisting hotels and restaurants non-conforming --- I was encouraged by the rezoning efforts which would make those properties conforming and allow for meaningful improvements to be made.

For the past 20 years, I have enjoyed the opportunity to live on my boat in our beautiful harbor at the Tugboat Marina. I’ve been very pleased to see the vast improvements that have happened so far. I often speak with visitors who tell me that they are very pleased with and impressed by the improvements that have been made on the east side. They also comment enthusiastically on our new beautiful and welcoming entrance to the harbor.

It is my hope that investment on the east side of the harbor will continue. This will benefit the entire harbor and region and is vital to our future.

I would like to see that the sound zoning package put forth by the Planning Board Advisory Work Group remains as one package. I attended a recent Planning Board meeting and can’t understand why it has been proposed that the package be divided into four separate questions. I think this will cause confusion with the voters and should be presented to the voters as one question --- one sound zoning package.

I can only see positive things happening to our entire region and all businesses if we encourage and allow for continued investment, continue to make improvements and work towards making our area a three-season destination, increasing commerce for all and keeping our young people here.

Charlie Clarke

Tugboat Inn Marina

and Oakland, Maine