GFECA Environmental Committee: A flawed gift in a valuable piece of land in Gilford

To The Daily Sun,

The gift of transferring 9 acres of valuable forest to Home Possible, a well-intended newly formed nonprofit organization with limited funds, for $1 is a flawed gift. In its current state the 9 acres are home to woodlands, wetlands, streams, and wildlife. This property is part of a larger wetlands system that cleans stormwater runoff of sand, silt, and other pollutants that would otherwise enter the Gunstock River and ultimately Lake Winnipesaukee. The property reduces flood risk and recharges the groundwater. It provides habitat and cover for wildlife. Our state is losing this type of valuable wetlands at an alarming rate. Preserving this resource in Gilford should be a top priority when we consider donating land to others. The value lost to the Gilford community in developing this land is permanent and irreplaceable.

The town of Gilford has other parcels of land that would be less costly for the project proponents to develop. The two streams and extensive wetlands on the 9-acre parcel will require a considerable amount of money to mitigate. Selecting an alternative site would better serve the Home Possible initiative, while also preserving the public interest in protecting the environment and quality of life we all enjoy.

Before casting a vote on Article 27, take a walk on this publicly owned 9-acre parcel of land being proposed for a multi-unit residential facility. Keep in mind, if Article 27 passes, the benefits and value that these 9 acres provides to our community will be lost forever. Let’s be part of a solution that achieves the objectives of The Home Possible Project and protects our natural resources. To ensure this outcome is realized, we urge all Gilford residents to vote "no" on Article 27.

John Beinoras, Cathy Korber, Michele DesMarais, Rick Nelson, Mark Petrozzi

Gilford Forest Estate Community Association Environmental Committee