I was disappointed to read Nancy Conway and Vera Littlefield’s letter to the editor (Feb. 25) concerning my company and Poland Spring. I shared my thoughts about Poland Spring’s potential expansion in Rumford and the benefits it could bring to the community there — as did others — but our praise for the company continues to be questioned. I don’t understand why.

My business, Hartt Transportation Systems Inc., headquartered in Bangor, is deeply appreciative of the relationship with Poland Spring and its parent company, Nestle Waters. We began contracting with them in 2001, handling work for 30 drivers. Today, our Maine work alone has allowed us to grow our business and employ more than 200 drivers, six managers and five mechanics. Those are good paying jobs with full benefits and retirement. Poland Spring’s success has helped Hartt Transportation Systems succeed because Nestle Waters awards so many contracts to local Maine companies like mine.

Whether people realize it or not, manufacturing jobs in Maine are dwindling. Maine once had a timber and paper-making dynasty, but times have changed. I cannot imagine what Maine’s economy might look like without Poland Spring/Nestle Waters providing opportunities. Does Hartt Transportation Systems Inc. benefit from this relationship with Poland Spring? Absolutely. But, more importantly, so does the entire population of Maine.

Maine is fortunate to have an abundance of rapidly renewable spring water that people love. That’s why I would encourage residents to welcome Poland Spring’s desire to grow here with open arms.

Jeff Castonguay, president, Hartt Transportation Systems Inc.

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