To the editor:
I would like to present a few comments regarding Mr. Wescott's letter (Times, Feb. 22), and relative statements made by Planning Board member Sam Coulbourn and others.
E-mail statements relative to the proposed purchase of the Granite Savings Bank building revealed some very interesting information. The claim that additional office space is required to keep up with the growth of the town of Rockport seems quite off base, considering the decline of Rockport's population over the past decade.
Why is that these people refuse to consider what has been pointed out by other committees of the past; that the most economical and desirable alternative would be to move the Department of Public Works personnel — the director, the engineering personnel, as well as the office staff — to a modern pre-fab office building to be located at the site of the town garage.
This move would be far less expensive, and the location is where Public Works vehicles and equipment are located. Also, the town's only water treatment plant is located there, and there is plenty of space for parking.
I know I am not the only one who believes that Public Works' operation would be improved by the presence of the director and his staff at this site. This move would free up space in Town Hall. Also, the old police station across the street could supplement the needed space if fully utilized.
To me, the present economy of Rockport and our country dictates that this is a poor time to expand facilities of the town government.
Rather, it is a time to acknowledge that many of the taxpayers of the town of Rockport are already overburdened with taxes and sewer bills.
fred grover
South Street, Rockport
