This subdivision application now seems to have become a personal one for the commission instead of one that best suits the needs of the town. This "idea" that someone proposed about a future road network will only lead to more litigation on the applicant's part and on the town's part. I for one do not want to see my tax dollars go for more litigation; I would rather see the commission spend their efforts and focus on the needs that are more pressing and not continue down the same path.
While I think it is commendable that the commission look to the future, the question remains, is this too far into the future? Certainly not one of us will see this network become a reality. Not only will there be a protracted legal battle with the Hartshorns, but there will be considerable legal battles with some residents of Riverview and every landowner that will be affected by this fantasy idea of a future road network. Do you expect the landowners to give up their property rights for an unproven idea?
How, Mr. Fidel, will you explain to future boards that you were so concerned and focused on this one perceived need that the commission lost sight of the more pressing and real needs? What will the legacy of this board be, one that was more concerned with their own ideas or one that did what the taxpayers wanted?
I have given you, Mr. Fidel, my public input that you asked for; I urge the board not to spend anymore of my tax dollars on litigation. I ask the public to consider that this matter carries grave consequences for landowners. Does the town have the right to blackmail a citizen to get what it wants for an unsubstantiated idea?
Michael Warner lives in Waitsfield.
