To the Editor:
Every summer for almost two decades we have enjoyed coming to my in-laws summer cottage off River Road in Edgecomb. (Yes, newcomer summer guests in your eyes!)
This means dozens of trips in to Boothbay and many many more into Damariscotta for shopping, but also to park and kayak from the boat launch ramp.
In late July I received a parking ticket for parking my van, with kayaks and kayak holders attached, facing the water in a boat trailer parking space, one space from the wooden kayak rack near the boat ramp.
While I admit I did not read the sign correctly, and while my ticket states: “Boater Parking without a Permit,” (a nice $25 fine) I hope that the debate is not over on the parking situation in this parking lot facing the harbor.
Since I parked in a space that only those with moored boats can park, how often do people with moorings leave their cars parked there?
What about those of us who want to kayak one way or round trip along the river who will be on the river maybe 2-3 hours or longer?
Every summer we help generate revenue in to Damariscotta and I know that doesn’t mean we can disobey ordinances in the process.
I am admitting my guilt, but I ask that at least the cost of the fine at $25 be reduced!
From the responses I have received (ranging from polite to curt) from your town offices I hope I can be cut some slack and maybe pay a bit less?
I understand that parking as in most towns can be a hot topic, so I hope there is more room for discussion on where and for how long one can park and I hope for more spaces available for kayak users.
(Remember, the more I stay, the more I spend!)
