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Comments for
Harbormaster Hearing.
I am Burr Taylor, of
Cundy’s Harbor. Let me add that I am not here as a representative, or even
a member of the Harbor and Waterfront Committee because my reappointment
application was opposed by Selectman Weil. For the benefit of those who do
not know, Selectman Weil’s comments supporting his opposition to my
reappointment were unfair, inaccurate and without basis in fact. If you
would like details, reasons and evidence, you can check out my website at
www.harpswell.info.
1.
At town meeting in March, the selectmen, including Selectman Weil,
were opposed to a full-time harbormaster and even opposed to a more time
harbormaster. Could you tell the hearing what has changed between then and
now such that you now support a full-time harbormaster.
2.
Were you aware that there were several members of the committee who
were reluctant to support a full-time harbormaster? While they were not
opposed, they thought more study and discussion were appropriate.
3.
Harpswell has not always had the best history with harbormasters
since many have had the reputation of abusing their power either for their
own gain or whatever. Have you given any consideration to how to ensure a
new harbormaster would provide a positive experience for all.
4.
The harbormaster’s job will probably require a great deal of tact
and perseverance, and support when he/she really gets down to reorganizing
Mackerel Cove and other places. Some decisions he will make will
undoubtedly offend or anger people. Are the selectmen prepared to support
the harbormaster in these conflicts, even if they are politically
difficult?
5.
Fishermen have most reason to be concerned about a harbormaster.
They already know more about the water than most people who might be
harbormaster. What do you say to a fisherman who is concerned that a
full-time harbormaster will be more of a hindrance to his independence,
freedom, and making a living, than a positive addition to the Town of
Harpswell?
I am in favor of a
fulltime harbormaster. If we want people to take our waterfront seriously,
I believe we need to create a full-time harbormaster and treat him
seriously.
You have heard about
how long the coast line is, how many harbors we have, and how many
moorings we have. I do not think anyone would disagree about how important
the water is to Harpswell. Of our 2400 plus moorings, only 300-400 belong
to fishermen. I would like to see a harbormaster who would accommodate all
these owners, who could provide guidance for all who need it, while not
unduly infringing on the freedom, livelihood and independence of
fishermen, and who would provide a voice to the selectmen on the needs of
this most important resource.
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In my opinion, there
is a great diversity of people, attitudes and skills in Harpswell. We need
to adapt our ways, including the harbormaster, to include all of these
people, skills and attitudes in a way that educates the new without
infringing unduly on the independence of the old
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