To the editor,

I was surprised and disappointed at the recent action by the Town Council to raise the mooring fees for the non-profit sailing schools in town. I regard the schools as one of the gems of Bristol, a unique benefit for the townspeople and a reason for outsiders to come to Bristol.  

The sailing schools are also a source of jobs for young people, good jobs that teach responsibility and valuable life skills, something other than how to add French fries to an order. Such jobs are hard to come by.

The schools help engender the kind of vibrant economy any community would want: a reason to come to town, where visitors might shop and dine while their children are engaged in a wholesome activity, as well as a source of jobs for its people. Why would the town leaders not want to nurture such a resource?

James Casalegno
15 Acacia Road