I am writing in response to Charles McNutt’s Dec. 10 letter, “Anti-pipeline appeal poorly timed” (Page A6).

What seems particularly achieving of “new levels of absurdity and bad judgment,” as Mr. McNutt writes, is his seemingly full-time negation of anything of true value in South Portland.

In yet another rant against genuinely progressive efforts in the community, McNutt again rewrites history – and bashes people who are actually stepping up to get something done. With regard to how the “real world” works, Mr. McNutt and his ilk continue to forget what really happened.

“Reasonable adults usually sit down, negotiate a compromise and settle their differences.” Bullies don’t. And such is the nature of the fossil fuel industry – and its acolytes (including, apparently, Mr. McNutt) – who were given the opportunity to do so during the extended negotiations leading up to the Clear Skies Ordinance.

Reinforcing the dishonest, aggressive, destructive and greedy approaches leading up to the ordinance’s passage, the alleged “good neighbor” and its gang chose to sue the city. People committed to protecting the air (and yes, the planet) for all are accused of the very thing that many in the dying fossil fuel industry are actually guilty of: harming our neighbors.

Mr. McNutt’s hypocrisy, in light of such realities, is all the more apparent via his offensive comment: “Perhaps we can think about those among us who truly need our charity.” If he were truly committed to that sentiment, he would join those of us who are taking on the fight that is necessitated by reality and facts – not denial and propaganda.

Who brought the expense of this suit onto the city? It was not Protect South Portland or the host of environmentally (and economically) sensitive and caring individuals who are willing to continue to defend an incredibly protective and logical ordinance.

Bob Klotz

South Portland


Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.