Dear Editor:

I am writing concerning recent remarks by Wiscasset Board of Selectmen and chairman Pam Dunning concerning potential improvements to the Wiscasset Ancient Cemetery (“Wiscasset eyes wastewater needs, cemetery issue”). In response to the mention of “considerable discussion in town” regarding proposed improvements at the cemetery and talk of a letter signed by numerous villagers requesting action by the board, Ms. Dunning responded “…at the end of the day it’s up to the board of selectmen to make those decisions…”, as if the will of the people is secondary. It sounds like Ms. Dunning has failed to understand that as chairman of the board, it is her responsibility to ensure the villagers are represented, not to make decisions counter to their wishes.

The current fence needs to go without a doubt, and the board has made that decision. But without some further action to create a border of some sort to replace the current dilapidated fence, the cemetery will end up being a pedestrian shortcut and will risk degrading the dignity of those resting within. While options for a new fence or border are debated, consideration for modest entry through the new fence or border is in order, to provide a dignified means for people to visit the cemetery without climbing the fence or walking around the block. It should be noted that a robust endowment exists to fund these proposed improvements and no tax dollars would need to be spent. However, the board of selectmen will need to take action before anything can happen. We villagers simply want the board to consider soon the options that are being proposed, without waiting to “… live through it with the year to see how the seasons change it,” before deciding what, if anything, to add.

Mark Light

Wiscasset