PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • February 17, 2022
A Feb. 12 letter (“Don’t shut out S. Portland’s dogs”) was stunning in the anger displayed toward South Portland residents who want to enjoy Willard Beach in peace and safety. South Portland has one small beach to be enjoyed by everyone. While I love dogs and have raised several, they are afforded privileges, not rights. It is the humans who fund the maintenance and preservation of our open spaces; no space should be inaccessible to people because of safety. Additionally, the damage to sand dunes, loss of birds and lack of sanitation from uncollected dog feces are significant. This is about safe access to all city open spaces. Compromise and cooperation are key. ~ Rosemarie De Angelis, South Portland