Here is a conversation between a Waterfront Protection Ordinance canvasser and a South Portland resident who has heard some of Save Our Working Waterfront’s campaign messaging:

“Ding Dong.”

Resident: “Hello?”

Me: “Hi, my name is Eve, and I’m a volunteer for Protect South Portland. We’re volunteering to let folks know about the oil companies’ plan to transport tar-sands oil to South Portland to ship overseas. We’re hoping you’ll vote for the Waterfront Protection Ordinance.

Resident: “Well, I’m all for the environment, and I don’t like the idea of tar sands in South Portland, but I read about a study that said that the city’s economy would be hurt if we pass that ordinance. What about that?”

Me: “Sir, did you know that an oil industry marketing group paid $15,000 for that so-called study? And did you know its conclusions are based on the assumption that every oil business along the waterfront will shut down? I’m afraid the other side is spending a lot of money on outside lobbyists and lawyers to confuse the issue. The fact is that the ordinance won’t have any economic effect on existing businesses.

Resident: “OK. But do we really need a new law? My neighbor works on the waterfront and he told me no one actually plans to bring tar sands here.”

Me: “Yep, that’s more of the oil companies’ misinformation campaign. The Portland Pipe Line Company already has a state permit to pump 5.9 million gallons a day of tar-sands oil into our city and to build 70-foot smokestacks on the pier next to Bug Light Park. In fact, the pipeline CEO said publicly he would welcome the opportunity to ship tar-sands oil through the pipeline.

Resident: So, what can we do?

Me: Passing the Waterfront Protection Ordinance will stop the tar sands project.

Resident: “All right, but it’s so confusing! If I don’t want tar sands but I’m not sure how to vote!

Me: “Just remember: you want to protect South Portland. You want to vote “FOR” the ordinance.

Resident: “So, are you an environmentalist?”

Me: Well, I care about the welfare of our city and its beautiful public spaces near the ocean.”

Resident: “Then why are you stepping on my mums?”

Eve A. Raimon

South Portland