On July 15 at the Scarborough Town Council meeting there was an outpouring of residents, taxpayers and interested parties concerning the proposed town “land swap” of Depot Street with the owners of the Lighthouse Motel. When almost 30 people spoke against the “land swap,” 377 signatures are presented and the council chambers are filled with residents opposing this “land swap,” and the council votes in favor of the swap, what is the point of a public hearing?

Town Council Chairman Mike Wood’s display of disrespect and arrogance to the residents in attendance and the issue is deplorable. I have never witnessed such behavior by an elected town official. He tossed the petition aside and said that it was not valid, that only 166 of the signatures were residents. Regardless, that is still 166 more people that are opposed to the town giving a public street to a private party.

To say that Depot Street is an accident waiting to happen is false. I have spent summers in Pine Point for over 50 years and there has never been a major mishap there. Not only is it a public way to the beach, but it is also an access for emergency vehicles to get on the beach.

This is not an “equitable” deal for the taxpayers of Scarborough and it is a travesty of injustice to those who love Pine Point and want to maintain its welcoming atmosphere.

Jeanne McGurn
Portland


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