I am thankful for  Mimi Karlsson's letter in last week’s paper, entitled "Do Nothing Little Compton Town Council Must Go." Her accusations were disconcerting so I researched her claims. I was very happy to uncover that she has been misled and misguided.

Ms. Karlsson’s statement that “but for the incompetence in attending to public health in town”, the commons could have a public water system. The Commons is notorious for its lack of water.  A public water supply would be unsustainable.

Regarding her assertion that due to “the town council leadership’s fear of being surveilled”, there could have been a security camera system at the town beach, is not accurate. The beach commission has jurisdiction over what happens at the beach, not the town council.

Regarding the statement, the town council mismanaged the harbor, resulting in sewage contamination is also misdirected. The harbor master enforces the harbor, and, if unmanageable it would have been brought to the town council; it hasn’t. Additionally,  I spoke with Mr.Joseph  Haberke, Administrator, Surface Water Protection & Water Quality at DEM. He said the water in the harbor is inspected six times per year by DEM, and there is no evidence that any contamination exists.

Regarding her statement that of "the leadership’s ignorance”, the old restaurant well is being used by businesses to spew its water sewage into the harbor, is also unfounded. For this allegation, Mr. Haberke at DEM said the well is also inspected by DEM and the Department of Health and there is no evidence that sewage contaminants are coming from the well.

Regarding her statement that “but for the council’s libertarian attitudes, there might have been regulations on short-term rentals” is not true or current. The issue was recently presented, language was drafted, and now will be reviewed at the next meeting. This matter is being handled swiftly and appropriately.

Lastly, regarding her statement, “but for the myopic town council, there could have been a small civic center with a garage for town transport vehicles built on high ground in town." When? Where? What grant money? This too is baseless.

Contrary to Ms. Karlsson’s allegations, due to their diligence and smart leadership, we can credit Mushen, Mataronas, and Golembeske for enabling us to live  “in a piece of paradise” for the last 20 years, all without paying the exhorbitant taxes like our poorly managed neighboring towns.

Yes, their management and leadership, unbeknownst to most of us when we move here, is the reason we enjoy our “paradise.”  So  I say we vote for them and their like-minded slate which includes Maureen Rego and my husband, David Beauchemin.

Before making such strong accusations, one should make inquiries, check their understanding with the council, or attend the next town council meeting to stay current.

Karen Beauchemin

Little Compton