Convenience store would hurt neighborhood

I oppose a convenience store at the northeast corner of German Church Road and East Washington Street in Cumberland,where the St. John United Church of Christ is located. The proposal to demolish a church with such a significant heritage involving so many is a travesty.

While I support the church’s decision to sell the property and move to a location more easily maintained, a convenience store—even one with a restaurant and outdoor seating—could destroy an area that has tried hard to maintain and improve quality of life for residents in an area that has seen a rise in crime and commercialism in recent years.

Vacant commercial buildings and other properties in the area would be better suited for this business and another multi-use commercial property at the location.
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Diane Hannell