Wells turns down water extraction ban
Residents in Wells have rejected a proposed ordinance that would have prevented water bottlers like Poland Spring from tapping local aquifers.
At a town meeting Saturday, about 650 people voted on the measure, which also would have denied corporations rights outlined in the Maine and federal constitutions while bestowing rights on area ecosystems, the Portland Press Herald reported.
The meeting began late due to a large turnout, and some people remained waiting in line after the vote was taken. Dozens were turned away, the York County Coast Star reported. Others complained that debate was halted before they had a chance to speak.
The proposal arose after Poland Spring approached the Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Wells Water District about selling water to the company, owned by Nestle Waters North America Inc. Under a 30-year contract, Poland Spring sought to buy up to 432,000 gallons of excess capacity a day at a cost of $900,000 a year, the Portland Press Herald reported. The plan was tabled indefinitely last summer in response to public opposition.
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