The Westbrook city councilors are being wise to take the needed time to think about and ask questions about the plans for the Snyder property. How much open space would there actually be? Is a parking lot really open space? There was mention of a 15-foot buffer strip – is this too small?

The people of Westbrook had concerns about Wal-Mart and there was discussion about noise and lights and traffic. How will these things impact the neighbors on Stroudwater, most importantly, the farm next door? Maine has lost way too many farms and open spaces already. People slow down to enjoy the sight of the fields and young cattle.

Do we need a new, large retail establishment? Why not concentrate on downtown, where improvements are taking place and people can walk to various businesses.

There are many questions about what would be allowed under changes in zoning. The zoning now in place already allows for several kinds of construction.

Perhaps it is time to form a land trust in Westbrook, raise money and apply for grants to purchase land when it becomes available.

Jean Jordan

Westbrook