Vote yes on Article 4 to have the town enter into a management agreement with the state to steward the Clark Cove property, which is currently controlled by the state.
Only one of the three Select Board members recommended it, and he explained why he did so. One member is an abutter who should have recused himself.
Under the agreement, the town would be able to control and manage the property for passive recreation in a way that would respect its inherent beauty and its environmental importance as a wildlife habitat. Otherwise, the state would have the ability to develop the 18 acres without any regard for how the town would like to retain its character.
The flyer that has been mailed out, asking us to vote no, alleges the plans for Clark Cove violate the comprehensive plan. I beg to differ. The comprehensive plan seeks to preserve the rural nature and scenic views of Harpswell. Under the town’s plan for Clark Cove, there will be a pathway and a small parking area for two to six cars. The article states the town will abide by environmental protection codes. Views will not be obstructed.
The flyer correctly states that the initial appropriation of $5,000 is unlikely to be the actual budget required to do the improvements needed, but they do not need to be done overnight. The town will seek grants. Perhaps it can also enter a partnership with the Harpswell Heritage Land Trust.
When presented opportunities, Harpswell should be pursuing additional shoreline accessibility for everyone — for those in the fishing community and for recreational activities. Controlling the town’s limited public shoreline ensures easy and direct access to the water for present and future generations.
Vote yes on Article 4.
Phil Taylor, Orr’s Island
