Editor:

I am writing to increase awareness of the public to the latest requests before the Kennebunkport Planning Board by Atlantic Holdings, developers of Hidden Pond I (formerly the Cottages at Fishing Pole Lane) and the proposed Hidden Pond II, both of which are located off Goose Rocks Road. The current request is for a change of use to a 26-unit motel for the existing property (Hidden Pond I) and a 20-unit motel, 60-person restaurant, swimming pool and spa for the proposed new development (Hidden Pond II).

The reason, plain and simple, is that the developers could not sell the property as originally intended, cannot now rent them for extended periods and therefore requests the “motel” designation so these units can be rented by the night.

This change of use would be nothing more than a back-door approval of two new motels in this quiet and largely rural residential area, and would present all of the attendant negatives connected with a motel such as increased traffic volume, noise, safety concerns, and would have a significant detrimental effect on the adjacent and surrounding property values.

The increased volume of renters may also have an effect on the small gem of a beach that we now enjoy. In a sense the board would be bailing out the developer for a mistake or miscalculation of the market for his original product. Speaking as an abutting property owner, I encourage all residents who care about the quality of life in our area to attend the next planning board meeting on Oct. 1 and write to the board and let them know you want this request for a change of use to a motel to be denied.

Bob Shappee

Kennebunkport