Here is the text of the hand-written resignation letter Craig Babbidge composed on a yellow legal pad while incarcerated at Cumberland County Jail.

1/3/08

To: Tex H., Steve P., Judy Carpenter and other Planning Board Members

RESIGNATION

Due to the existing life-altering conditions of which I and my family are now undergoing, it is with great regret that I must request that you consider my resignation from the appointed position on the planning board for District 4.

In leaving, I would like to applaud Tex H., Steve P. and (formerly) Jim Gailey on the outstanding jobs they have done. I’m sure these professionals will continue to do the same in bringing projects through the planning board process from inception to final approval… Their hard work makes the job of the planning board much easier.

I also would like to acknowledge Judy Carpenter and Carol Thorne for the long-term commitment and experience they bring to each and every meeting.

I especially would like to thank Maxine Beecher in her willingness to stand up for what she knows is right, regardless of popular opinion – like when she re-nominated me for a third term, against incredible pressure from her peers.

I applaud all of her efforts, including the work she has done and continues to do for substance abuse prevention at the High School.

In closing, I would like to say, Yes, I have had a very difficult time in the past five years, which is catching up to me now and to which I take full responsibility. I could not have gotten through this without the 100 percent support and love from my wife, Lori, and my kids, who this is very hard on. I also want to thank my employer, Maietta Construction, especially Louis, Vinny and Neil, as well as the people at Mercy IOP and Catholic Charities of Maine. All have been a great support group.