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These are all valid arguments and we are sure they have been voiced already. But we think <br />they miss the point. This beach is one of the few places in the area where people from all <br />walks of life can coexist. It is arguably one of the most diverse public locations in Long <br />Lake/Orono and is enjoyed by people of all races and economic statuses. For the many citizens <br />that cannot afford private pools, boats, or private clubs, this is a much needed oasis. <br />As a family with young children, it has been a wonderful place to spend an afternoon or <br />weekend. We have met lifelong friends, watched our children grow and learn to swim, and <br />have enjoyed storing and launching our canoe from the publicly available canoe storage at the <br />park. We are constantly bumping into families we know that live on all sides of town at the <br />park who are just looking for a nice place to enjoy nature. While we have yet to see the <br />unsavory behavior that so many proponents of the boathouse bring up, we have seen families <br />able to find some semblance of normalcy in these uncertain times. <br />Please do not take the little public land that is available and give it away for private use. We <br />understand the Long Lake Rowing Club's need for a permanent facility and can empathize <br />with their situation. Their need for space does not mean that it should come at the expense of <br />the public. Their need for space and the need for the park to remain public are not mutually <br />exclusive. <br />Also, please consider the hundreds of silent voices out there that are completely unaware of <br />this proposal. If the Council would still like to continue exploring a partnership with the Long <br />Lake Rowing Club, then for the sake of transparency and honesty, post the plans publicly at <br />the park and allow park goers the opportunity to make an informed decision on its future. <br />The Three Rivers Park District has demonstrated good governance by posting a sign right in <br />front of where the boathouse would stand. It invites the public to "Help Plan the Next <br />Regional Trail" and provides the information necessary to contact them. If they can be that <br />open and transparent, why can't the City of Orono? If the Rowing Club is really the best use of <br />the land, then surely a public comment period that is well advertised and accessible would <br />support that claim. <br />Best Regards, <br />Anthony and Kristen Quill