Dear Editor:

When Boothbay Harbor Waterfront Preservation (BHWP) first announced a waterfront “park” on the east side of the harbor, my wife and I were thrilled by what sounded like a wonderful and fun place for townspeople to bring their kids. Naturally, we assumed it would be safe and green. That’s why we donated to BHWP three years in a row.

Then several neighbors alerted us to the Prock engineering report (written Nov. 8, 2018.) This thorough inspection report raises serious questions about the pier’s safety under load. About a week later, several friends came to us with the BHWP marketing materials admitting that 51 - 60% of the park property’s surface will be impervious, versus 20%, the local standard imposed on other properties. Shortly thereafter another party divulged to us that splashpad water contaminated by chlorine and human use will run through a tank and into the harbor. 

Then BHWP changed its focus and proposed commercial uses like a general store, apartments for rent, a marina, pavilion, and a large asphalt parking lot. That’s when, for the first time, we asked to see the park plans. They refused. Neither the town nor the developer will discuss these environmental issues with us, despite repeated requests.

Our only choice was an appeal to make sure the planning board applies town ordinance standards to the BHWP proposal. During this appeal readers may want to follow the media reports, because we have unearthed more facts. It will soon surface that town review of BHWP applications has been plagued by procedural shortcuts, violations, and legal errors. 

We seek no damages or monetary gain from the people of Boothbay Harbor. We believe all project applicants should respect town rules, no matter who the applicant may be. It’s simple --- our only priority is: let’s make sure this project is safe and green. Once the park is built, citizens of Boothbay Harbor will have lost their only chance to make sure BHWP does things correctly. Now is the time to do so.

Joe and Jill Doyle

Boothbay Harbor