Dear Editor:

Thinking outside the box, I may have found a solution to saving St. Andrews Hospital.

1. Boothbay Harbor, under eminent domain, takes over St. Andrews Hospital, stipulating that the site and its associated structures be used for higher education, local healthcare and economic development.

2. The property can than be offered to the University of New England as a first class, up and running teaching hospital for undergraduate or graduate use.

3. For its part, UNE creates high-paying jobs, and would operate the present emergency room/triage center on a 24/7, year-round basis.

4. The Family Care Center would continue to operate as is, while the main building could be used for medical research labs, along with housing for 20 test subjects.

5. Boothbay Harbor would enjoy the benefits of becoming a college town, as all the visitors, students, their families and friends nourish the local economy year-round.

6. Without any money changing hands, the University of New England would gain a spectacular, beautiful campus on prime waterfront real estate, and would agree to provide comprehensive medical services to the community for not less than 25 years.

It's a win-win for all concerned.

Here's hoping this letter serves to stimulate fresh ideas from the entire community.

Let's not throw in the towel just yet.

John VanOrsdell
Boothbay