Dear Editor:

Recently, there have been a number of instances in which members of our community have treated other members inappropriately, whether it be in-person, online, or an act of hate. We do not believe that these actions accurately reflect the heart of Wiscasset and acts of crime in particular will not be tolerated.

Last fall, the Bangor Daily News pointed out that we were one of the most politically divided towns in Maine based on our voting records. We know we have differences of opinion but that only makes us stronger. Different voices at the table should make for better outcomes. Solutions to both simple and complex problems can be reached when folks come to the table willing to help find those solutions and treat all those involved with respect.

You can be assured that this board will always treat each other and the public with respect and we hope that that will be an example for all members of our community. It is simply unacceptable for any member of the community to feel unsafe or unwelcome in their own home or community.

You may not agree with what someone else believes or how they live, but that does not mean that you cannot have mutual respect for each other. We believe that this town is full of people who can be kind and respectful and we hope you do too.

It’s important to know that this letter is to everyone; it is not to single out any one person or group or incident. It is meant to be a reminder to everyone about the way each one of us deserves to be treated: with respect.

Wiscasset Board of Selectmen,
Sarah Whitfield, Chair
William Maloney, Vice Chair
James Andretta
Pamela Dunning
Terry Heller