Questions linking public land to private lands for corporate profit

September 25, 2014

Commissioner Jeffrey Rose
Department of Resources and Economic Development
PO Box 1856
Concord, NH 03302-1856

RE: Mount Sunapee Public Comments

Dear Commissioner Rose,

I write to express my opposition to the proposed expansion/development of the western slope of Mount Sunapee State Park by current leaseholders, CNL of Orlando, Florida, and sub-leaseholders, Tim and Diane Mueller.

I urge you to extend the period for public comment and ask that you insist upon further public hearings at which full details of this proposition can be explored and reported on by third-party experts in various fields.

What are the legal implications of this proposal to link public lands to private lands for corporate profit? Article 12(a) in New Hampshire’s Bill of Rights states:

[Art.] 12-a. [Power to Take Property Limited.] No part of a person’s property shall be taken by eminent domain and transferred, directly or indirectly, to another person if the taking is for the purpose of private development or other private use of the property. – November 7, 2006

New Hampshire State Parks belong to the people of New Hampshire. CNL and the Mueller’s using this land for private development seems in conflict with the law.

  • My understanding is that lease options become open for discussion in 2018. What will happen to this land if/when the leaseholders decide not to extend the lease signed in 1998?
  • Who then will be responsible for the state held land that is attached to a corporate interest?
  • What are the legal responsibilities surrounding chairlifts, trails, snowmaking and other equipment, utilities and rights-of-way?
  • If snowmaking equipment is installed on the western slope of Mt. Sunapee, from what water source will that come?
  • What implications does this proposed development have on the town of Goshen – on the taxpayers of the State of New Hampshire?
  • What precedent will this marriage of public land for private profit set when considering the future of other public parks across the State?

These are but a few of my concerns.

I count on the Department of Resources and Economic Development, and you, Commissioner Rose, as guardians of Parks and Recreation in New Hampshire, to protect my State Parks and I hold you to your words:

Enjoy the beauty and recreational opportunities of New Hampshire state park properties. Join us as stewards of these natural wonders and help us to preserve them for future generations. – New Hampshire Division of Parks and Recreation, Explore, para. 3, 2014

I am a steward of the natural wonders of my state, working to preserve them for myself, my family and for future generations. I cannot do this without your help.

Sincerely,

Lisa M. Bozogan

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