Thumbs up to Regional School Unit 21 for its continued diligence in locating the source of staff and students’ health complaints at Middle School of the Kennebunks. Tests that have been conducted, and the future tests that are planned, will hopefully resolve the issue. So far, no mold has been found, but those who work and study in the building will want an answer for their symptoms and the RSU is not giving up on addressing their concerns.
Thumbs down to the lack of communication between the City of Saco and the Historic Preservation Commission that led to such a late review of the historic value of the Bayview Convent building. Now that the wrecking ball is poised, finger-pointing is going around as to whose responsibility it was to engage the commission once the site was slated for redevelopment. It seems to us that the city planner, who keeps up to date with such projects, could have taken a moment to notify this volunteer commission back when he learned of the plans.
Thumbs up to the York County Sheriff’s Office and the New Hampshire police departments with which they worked, for their successful investigation into several recent daytime home burglaries throughout York County. Such a crime leaves a family feeling violated and wary, and it is comforting to know that the YCSO seriously pursues these criminals and brings them to justice.
Thumbs down to the proposal to reduce the summer police force in Old Orchard Beach. During the summer, the population swells enormously ”“ with many visitors consuming alcohol during their stay ”“ and a strong contingent of police are needed to handle this influx of revelers. The town has been trying to improve its image for a number of years, by sprucing up the downtown and keeping crime down. If the police force is cut back, indecent behavior and crimes may threaten to overwhelm the image of OOB as a safe family destination.
Thumbs up to the Arundel selectmen for approving the mass gathering ordinance for Bentley’s Saloon that will allow them to accept the April 25 benefit motorcycle ride that supports active U.S. military members. The saloon has been struggling for a year to have its occupancy limit increased so that it can operate without special permits. As the saloon’s bid to expand its establishment goes through the Planning Board, we hope the town continues its support and helps this thriving business grow, as best they can within the current town ordinance. Motorcycle noise complaints in the area hang like an aura of smoke around everything Bentley’s proposes, but that issue is not under their control once bikers leave the premises ”“ and the business should not be punished for it.
Thumbs up to the coalition of Sanford Police, Partners for a Healthy Community and others who are making a push during prom season to remind parents and youth that it’s not OK for minors to consume alcohol. Many people have the idea that those who are under 21 can drink in a private home, so it’s important that this public campaign remind them that it’s still illegal ”“ and dangerous.
— Thumbnails is a Monday feature of the Journal Tribune’s opinion pages. If you would like to respond, please write the Reader’s Forum via e-mail at jtcommunity@journaltribune.com or by dropping your letter off at our Biddeford or Sanford offices.
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