LETTER: Streaming meetings helps busy business owners

March 30, 2026

To the Editor:

I live in Deer Isle and own and operate Stonecutters Kitchen and Harbor View Store in Stonington. Like a lot of people here, my days are full—running a business, managing staff, keeping shelves stocked, and taking care of everyday responsibilities.

I care deeply about this community. My livelihood, my employees, and my customers are all affected by decisions made at select board and committee meetings. Things like road closures, water shutoffs, parking changes, and local events have a real impact on how I plan my days and run my business.

But getting to a meeting in person is almost never possible. Even if I’m not actively working, I’m usually exhausted, and adding a two-hour meeting to my day just isn’t in the cards. I still deserve to know what’s happening in the town I work in and pay taxes to.

Isn’t it better to be able to hear or watch a meeting, take some time to think about what was discussed, and move forward with that knowledge, rather than miss the information altogether?

This shouldn’t be an endurance test to see who can sit through the most meetings. It should be about keeping taxpayers, community members, and those who care about this town informed and involved.

I appreciate that town officials want to build community. But when community members rarely show up—often because they simply can’t—where is the community in that? Making meetings accessible would go a long way toward changing that.

If meetings are streamed and recorded, I can listen while I’m making breakfast, out on a supply run, or getting ready for the day. That access helps me stay informed, plan ahead, and be part of the solution—whether that means adjusting for a road closure, preparing for an event, or helping address concerns around parking or trash.

Stonecutters Kitchen and Harbor View Store are more than just businesses. They’re gathering spots for locals and visitors alike. I want to be a good neighbor and an active part of this community. Having access to meetings makes that feel possible, even with a full schedule.

My time may be stretched thin, but that doesn’t mean I don’t care. Streaming meetings helps bridge that gap and keeps more of us connected to what’s happening in the town we all share.

— Gail Stinson, Deer Isle

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