I want to thank the Falmouth Town Council for the recent forum on rezoning. Having volunteered in several public capacities over the years (Falmouth Conservation Trust, School Board and the school consolidation question), I know how challenging it can be and so I admire the council’s and Long-Range Planning Advisory Committee’s spirit of volunteerism and dedication to working for Falmouth and its residents. But along with a willingness to serve go expectations of performance and accountability as well as a proper understanding of just who is being served.

Regrettably, I have lost confidence in our officials – in their capacity for sound judgment, in their ability to understand complex issues, and in their ability to distinguish between the legitimate concerns of residents, the theories and advice of professionals, and the financial interests of property developers. Before anything else, the public’s confidence and trust in our officials must be restored. This process can only begin with an immediate moratorium, unencumbered by artificial deadlines, on everything related to rezoning. With some time for reflection and conversation, we can get it right the second time around.

Charles Hebson
Falmouth