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Recipient Name <br /> Date <br /> Page 2 <br /> monitored (such as basin surface amendment and surface/boundary treatment), and once completed, <br /> there will be lacking direction and enforcement of appropriate use and future <br /> modification/development with little recourse available to impacted property owners. <br /> We ask that a more thorough, careful consideration be given to this process as we believe it is contrary <br /> to the Vision and Philosophy of the City of Orono as clearly stated across various media and <br /> publications. Assuming the excavation work and the ultimate use of the proposed pond falls under <br /> "Conditional Uses" directives in the WCA,we appeal to the tenant that "No conditional use permit will <br /> be granted unless its approval will not adversely impact wetlands,wetland buffer areas were they exist <br /> or are required,and surrounding properties,the intent of this article or the goals and policies of the <br /> community management plan". Sec 78-1607 WCA. The potential is strong for adverse impact, <br /> particularly without careful planning and adherence to established guidelines and best practice for <br /> planning and construction (including fill), maintenance, and oversight of use of this proposed pond. <br /> It is unfortunate that communications around this permit (through the MCWD and City of Orono) have <br /> been limited in advanced notice and time to express informed public comment. (As an example,two <br /> days notice from time of Orono postcard receipt to deadline for comment is simply not a realistic <br /> timeline.) Through our attempts to understand the Wetlands governance and potential usages,we have <br /> encountered significant misinformation and inconsistency that further concerns us,given the potential <br /> for lasting impact and precedent for our community stakeholders and our remaining natural resources <br /> should such processes be rushed and directed by questionable impartiality on the part of parties of <br /> governance,such as representatives of MCWD and DNR. <br /> In consultation (and attempts yet to occur)with local agencies regarding areas of concern we have also <br /> become aware of the infrequency of Wetland Exemptions for Habitat permit requests and significant <br /> "holes" of oversight, coordination, and process around this specific request. We would suggest that <br /> approval of such a project permit begs significant ongoing investment in energies and efforts to ensure <br /> outcomes that truly respect our natural resources and remaining open spaces. Given the response from <br /> other involved agencies,this appears to fall to the local jurisdiction, City of Orono. As such the City <br /> carries both privilege and responsibility in the future protections and preservations of our wetlands. <br /> Should there be interest in further conversation or input, we would be happy to share in greater detail <br /> our concerns and experiences in this process to date. <br /> Thank you for your time and consideration of the concerns expressed. <br /> Regards, <br /> Jamin and Maria Marks <br />