The Board of Directors of the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce expresses strong support for the development of the Rockport Harbor Hotel by the Smith family in its current plan and format. 

The Chamber board is deeply troubled that the actions of a few have called into question this first-class project in Rockport Village, and have cost the developers and the Town of Rockport hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal fees to defend their actions. 

The Smith family has been very engaged with the Town of Rockport and responsive to reasonable concerns raised by adjusting plans for their project.  The Rockport Planning Board has properly reviewed and permitted the project, and that decision was confirmed by the town’s Zoning Board of Appeals. 

The continued unwarranted legal challenges by a handful of people are a significant financial and time burden for the Town of Rockport and the Smith family, and send a chilling message to other business and developers who might consider bringing positive economic development opportunities to Rockport and our region. 

We welcome responsible economic development projects such as Rockport Harbor Hotel, and commend the developers for continuing to create jobs, add to our local tax base, and enhance our communities. 

Tom Peaco is President and CEO of the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce