The Mt. Sunapee ski resort expansion plan makes claims that circumvent the truth.
Claim: “This is a balanced environmental compromise.”
Truth: It illegally shatters, then degrades forest currently protected by state law. It claims to add conservation land, in truth already protected. Outdated water quality and environmental impact studies support the plan.
Claim: “Expansion will be a boon to the region’s economy.”
Truth: People who ski buy their goods and services at the resort. Then they go home to Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York. Businesses along Route 103 and nearby have failed repeatedly since the state leased the resort to private operators. In truth, ski resort expansion benefits only ski resort and potential developers.
Claim: “Goshen taxpayers benefit from income from expansion.”
Truth: Required town expenses for increased traffic, pollution, fire and police will far outpace any benefits the town receives.
Claim: “This plan protects Goshen and surrounding towns from resort sprawl.”
Truth: One simple zoning ordinance change by Goshen’s boards will enable condominium proliferation 50 feet from the resort property line. In truth, should Goshen or any town resist, corporate deep pockets will sue them well beyond their ability to resist.
Claim: “Resort expansion is in keeping with long-standing state park missions.”
Truth: It violates 100 years of state intentions making state parks open for the greatest number of New Hampshire residents without imposing substantial fees for that use.
The truth: This proposal benefits a few corporate entities, not the people of New Hampshire. This plan lies. It should be shelved indefinitely.
ALAN SHULMAN
New London