Friends of Rockport continues lending support to village residents seeking fair and full application of the Land Use Ordinance. These residents appealed the Zoning Board of Appeals confirmation of the Planning Board approval of the proposed hotel. At the same time, the residents filed a request for a temporary restraining order to halt construction during the appeal. The issues remain consistent: preservation of scenic views; traffic, safety and parking implications; light and noise pollution; and architectural compatibility with neighboring properties. The difference is that this appeal will be before an impartial judge, outside of the local politics of Rockport. The Land Use Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan are clear in these areas, and an impartial jurist should quickly and readily acknowledge these facts.
You already know how the developer has since changed the design from what was approved by the Planning Board. The open-air, top-floor event space, architectural design changes to the approved exterior, higher capacity lobby restaurant, and more warrant attention from the Code Enforcement Officer. So, how can you help? You can start by writing to the Town Manager, Bill Post, and the Code Enforcement Officer, Scott Bickford. Tell them you want the LUO enforced. Tell them that the changes from the approved site plan are unacceptable, and you want the plan sent back to the Planning Board. Then you can join us at Planning Board meetings to voice your views. This sliding photo comparison gives you some sense for the changes just in the front of the building.
You can also show your support financially by donating to the Friends of Rockport. Learn how to do that here. You can donate by check or online with your credit or debit card. This is not an easy fight as the developer and the town very much want this hotel to happen as designed, regardless of the LUO or your opinion.