I have previously described a small group of men who support the dock project at 28 Schoolhouse as Bellicose Bullies(BB). I have encountered another group now that is a bit more subtle. They are people who fundamentally know that putting big boats in a shallow, wetlands ecosystem is not right. They are more diverse than the BBs, but are all afraid of something. Some may fear falling out of favor with influential residents, or losing invites to festive events, after Covid is no longer an issue. They may be afraid of retribution in the form of business issues or even lost donations to events. Some may fear the stress associated with simply stating their opinions. Perhaps, the worst are people who are afraid to voice opposition because they want to maintain a friendship with the person proposing the dock. A friendship that does not allow for honest discussion is nothing more than a sad relationship masquerading as a friendship.

It is hard to really gauge the dynamic because they will not respond. I have written many very polite e-mails asking for nothing more than feedback and discussion, regardless of their position. Nothing, no response. Very disappointing. This is very different than political races where people choose not to reveal which candidate they support. In that situation they can vote, in secret, and their opinion is therefore "heard." With situations like the proposal at 28 Schoolhouse, when residents remain quiet their lack of opposition can be falsely interpreted as support for this type of development. When people object only when their own property is affected, it paves the way for widespread incremental changes that impact everybody.

Assuming that various Commissions, local and state authorities will prevent irreversible damage to the MI habitat and reputation is wishful thinking. It just doesn't happen that way. Wetlands are protected, nobody can build on or near them. Think again. Here is a picture taken on MI that shows a commercial excavator digging very near or actually on wetlands (white arrow). The video shows water pouring out of the bucket with each scoop. Stonington Planning and Zoning observed this and said it was perfectly ok. 

Here is a thought experiment. Assume this mini-marina is built, or one like it at another location on Masons Island.

The structure will have a plaque with the names of residents divided into two categories 1) Those who voiced opposition  2) Those who did not voice opposition. Who would be most bothered by this documentation? Those who opposed would likely be proud, not concerned. Those who vocally supported the dock, minus  a few who simply didn't realize what the end result would look like,  would not have an issue. The group that said nothing, however, would be neither proud nor comfortable; they would want an asterisk with their excuse cited: "They were our friends," "I was afraid," I didn't think it would happen." The list would be too long and cumbersome, such lists always are. For brevity, they could all be merged into one excuse, "the dog ate my homework." Time tested, well regarded, reusable, and gluten free.