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Maine State Legislature
Augusta, Maine 04333-0002

March 29, 2004

The Honorable John Elias Baldacci
Governor of Maine
I State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333-0001

Dear Governor Baldacci:

Over the past month, many of our constituents have contacted us regarding Sears Island concerning the proposal of developing a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal on the island. While we share many of their concerns, we are particularly concerned about the flow of information to and from the community. Specifically, the constituents we have spoken with would like the following information:

1 . The company interested in locating a terminal on Sears Island;

2. The size of the facility;

3. The number of potential jobs that would be created;

4. The approval process by which a LNG facility would be allowed to locate at Sears Island;

5. A description of the impact analyses that will be conducted regarding the economy, infrastructure, fishing and the environment; and

6. A description of the State's plan for implementing an appropriate level of security for a LNG facility.

We support economic development m Waldo County and lessening the tax burden of its citizens. However, we have concerns with any project that will severely restrict access to the Island if that project provides little, if any, economic development to the community or negatively impacts our existing businesses.

Finally, we understand that the state owns Sears Island, but it is our hope that the people of Searsport are the final decision makers as to whether or not a LNG terminal will be established on the island. A LNG facility could dramatically change the landscape of this coastal community and it is only right that those who will be most affected by this type of development have ample opportunity to have their voices heard.

We are interested in meeting with you, Commissioner Cole and Commissioner Cashman to discuss the above-mentioned concerns. Please contact Senator Carol Weston within the next few days as to a time and date that would work for all of you.

Thank you in advance for your prompt attention to this request. We look forward to meeting with you. In the meantime; please feel free to contact us if you have additional questions or concerns about this issue.

Sincerely,

Carol Weston J
State Senator

Jeff Kaelin
State Representative

Donald P. Berry, Sr.
State Representative

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