I read with interest the article “More wells running dry as drought grips Harpswell.” Once-reliable wells are running dry and water storage systems are becoming more prevalent as “property owners run out of other options.” Harpswell’s geology makes wells harder to drill and more likely to run dry everywhere, especially near the shore.
You should know that even as many residents are running low on this precious resource, the State Legislature just enacted L.D. 1829, signed into law by the governor on June 20. The purpose of this law is to make it easier to build affordable housing, but its consequences may change our land use regulations in a way that further threatens your potable water supply.
L.D. 1829 increases densities and restricts planning board review for housing development. Currently, Harpswell requires 40,000 square feet of land for a single-family house. L.D. 1829 mandates that we allow three dwelling units on these same lots, whether they are attached, detached or accessory units. Essentially, lot size is reduced from 40,000 square feet to about 13,000 per unit.
Even worse, planning board review is now eliminated for developments with four or fewer dwelling units within a structure. A four-unit apartment building can now be constructed on a lot with absolutely no planning board review, no public input and no transparent decision-making.
Planning board review is critical. It can dig deeper into the questions of adequate water supply, septic systems and other significant issues. All of this will now fall on the code enforcement office, which is not equipped to handle it.
Harpswell has no public water or sewer and likely never will. L.D. 1829 puts property owners and taxpayers at greater risk of water shortages. We govern ourselves well. Harpswell can manage Harpswell. L.D. 1829 should concern us all.
Amy Haible, Harpswell Neck
