We realize affordable housing in Portland is a top priority, but at what cost to the environment? The residents on Ocean Avenue support and welcome new neighbors, but not to the extent the Planning Board desperately recommended a change in its zoning. Assigned Zoning was put in place for many reasons. Let’s not continue to create a concrete jungle and destroy the fabric of our big town/small city. What happened to the charm of the Old Port and supporting small businesses? Look to Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and remember what we once were. As Portland taxpayers, it is time to stand up and protect the last of our wildlife while building thoughtful housing for its residents. Let’s stop the builders from continuing to be profit mongers and paying fines as they disregard rules and regulations while destroying the last of our open spaces. Stand with the residents of Graves Hill and save this historical site while protecting over 20 species of wildlife. There is a reason the 900 Ocean Ave. project was originally assigned R3 status. Furthermore, this aggressive project does not meet R5 requirements. The new plans will create many issues in this area, including increased traffic patterns, watershed issues, disruption to Portland Trails and, most importantly, decimating nature. Clearly, this one project cannot solve all of Portland’s housing issues, nor should it.

Patty Weber
Portland