Scarborough is growing – fast.

In many ways, that’s good news. There are new residents, new homes and new jobs in our community. But the quick pace of change also puts a lot of pressure on open spaces, natural areas, beach access and our ability to maintain clean water.

On Nov. 5, voters will have the chance to take action to protect those things and more. Scarborough Question 3 authorizes the town to issue bonds for up to $6 million to protect our community and the places that make it special.

Question 3 funds Scarborough’s land acquisition reserve fund, which was created by voters in 2000.

Scarborough voters have approved similar investments in open spaces four times, in 2000, 2003, 2009 and 2019, and the Town Council recommends that voters support Question 3, which is consistent with Scarborough’s comprehensive plan.

Every conservation project must be approved by the Town Council, and the purposes for the bond are specifically stated: to provide or maintain public access; to support recreation; to conserve water quality, natural resources and other natural areas; to purchase easements for walking of biking trails; to preserve significant historic sites and locations that significantly contribute to the character of the community; and to expand existing conservation or public areas.

Question 3 can help to ensure that our community has access to clean water and protect Scarborough Marsh, the largest saltwater marsh in the state. Blue Point Preserve is the example of the types of conservation that the land bond will make possible. Through the support of an earlier bond and private donations, more than 14 acres and 800 feet of frontage along the marsh have been permanently protected. As sea level rises, a freshwater wetland on the property will allow for salt marsh expansion when formerly tidal areas become permanently flooded.

Earlier bonds have also protected and expanded access to Higgins Beach, saved the Broadturn Farm, which sits on nearly 450 acres, and supported miles of trails through some of the most beautiful parts of our community.

We live in Scarborough because of its scenic natural areas, forests, marshes and beaches. This measure protects these important lands, ensuring we can enjoy the views, trails and recreation opportunities that make life here special.

Scarborough’s open space and natural areas are also home to diverse species of birds, fish and other wildlife that depend on these natural areas for survival. Our working farms provide fresh, local food and our historic sites keep us connected to our community’s history. Question 3 will preserve Scarborough’s natural beauty and quality of life for future generations, so our children and grandchildren can enjoy it the same way we do.

There’s an urgent need to act now. Once open spaces are lost, once historic buildings are torn down, once farmland is developed, they are gone forever.

Absentee ballots are available now and in-person absentee voting has started at Town Hall. Election Day is Nov. 5.

A “yes” vote on Scarborough Question 3 will benefit our entire community and help to ensure that we balance fast growth with conservation and protection.