Dear Editor:

Boothbay Harbor Selectmen have been presented with a letter from a group of individuals who call themselves the “Friends of the Harbor.” The letter argues that there’s more work to be done and urges delaying a town vote on the Planning Board’s recommendations regarding the East Side.

All winter long Town Leaders listened patiently to a small vocal group of opponents that are among the letter’s signers. Those opponents argued the plan would devastate marine businesses — until marine business owners stood up and said that was false — opponents then questioned the integrity of those same owners. Next opponents argued the plan would create a shortage of dock space for lobstermen — until the lobstermen said that they have plenty. Next they tried to block a sale of Captain Fish claiming it was the only possible solution for public access — until private sellers, buyers and public officials pointed out that there were other properties available and that the new plan underwrote town acquisition with developer fees. Next it was about shorting voter education — ignoring hours of public sessions and recorded meetings for those that missed them. Opponents even tried to shut out disagreement by denying elements of the public a voice in open forums — until Selectmen reassured everyone that all voices counted. Now opponents want to deny the voters their say with more delay.

Throughout this process this group, better called the “Opponents of Paul,” adapted their game when cornered by facts. They share an indifference to the economic stagnation of current codes on existing businesses, a guilt trip for their own privatization of harbor property, and obsessive personal vendettas against the developer.

Opponents are correct that people are “polarized.” But not on the issue at hand: rather it’s over opponents’ attempt to hijack public policy and the good intentions of others – to settle a score.

Town leaders have done an admirable job staying above all this, focusing on the interest of the town, and avoided being dragged into the weeds of personal animus and manipulation. It’s past time for the voters to have that same option.

 Tom Myette

Southport/Boothbay Harbor