Editor:

Thank you for keeping the Armory issue in the public eye. Although there was a report by a local committee, no considerations of cost were included, ostensibly to allow more latitude for ‘brainstorming’. Now we’re told, repeatedly, how much will be saved by not having to pay for private space rentals. But no mention is made of the costs of rehab/razing/renovation (pick one) of the Armory. This is disingenuous if not dishonest. 

The city has never taken an ‘arms’ length’ stance with this property, marketing it with the possibility of a zone change to make it more saleable.

Mr. Lord’s recent excellent guest editorial should be part of the public record if this ever does become a council agenda item.

This is a difficult issue. Is the council up to the challenge? When will the taxpayers get the benefit of the $650,000 spent with only nominal public input? Even the bee ordinance will get two readings-or more.

William R Laidley

South Portland