Editor:

   If the sentiments expressed by the president of the South Portland Dog Owners Group president represents the opinion of that organization then there’s little hope they’ll make any meaningful contribution toward a solution for the dog problem on Willard Beach.

   The president seems to favor the numbers game. She cites a “handful of complaints.” There are nine or 10 residences on Willard, even if you include secondary houses back from the beach, you still (even if they all complained, which is unlikely) would be dealing with a substantial minority.

   Our society is respectful of minority rights and frowns on overriding them roughshod. The number of complaints shouldn’t have a bearing on the issue of the complaints are valid.

   The president says the debate is about more than dogs; it’s about equal access for all South Portlanders. Willard is available all day from fall to spring plus the three hours during the short summer. That’s plenty of access, particularly for dogs. It would be gratifying to have the brief three months of summer for people to enjoy, particularly the children.

   But another concern has arisen that trumps the others: the E. Coli virus. If Willard has urine-drenched sand, caused by heavy dog usage, that can’t be cleansed by tide action, then responsibility really demands attention, if any kind of illness arises.

   Another question remains. If the status quo prevails, who’s responsible for policing the ordinances when the animal control officer’s not around.

Ralph Lowe

South Portland