I own a house in the cove directly across from Sears Island and the proposed liquid natural gas facility. I look out my windows each day at the beauty of Penobscot Bay and its surrounding area, enhanced by the waterfowl and lobster boats that fill the cove. Ducks are here – even in the winter – and we have flocks of Canada geese that hatch their families on the shore.

My family used to enjoy a drive around the island on soft summer evenings until the state made that impossible by barring the roadway. Still, my friend and I have taken long walks on the road and met moose and other wildlife along the way. Seals are always there sunbathing on the rocks on the point. There are few spots left to us along the coast where one can enjoy all of this and not be bombarded with the sights and sounds of industry.

To destroy this last bit of paradise would ill serve the state of Maine and create another blemish on the coastal horizon. I understand the needs for jobs in this area, but surely the island would be better utilized as a recreational park area. One that allowed the enjoyment of nature and protected the wildlife, air and sea.

I will do everything in my power to see that Sears Island is protected and not turned into another industrial eyesore.

Sandra Baker

Searsport