Editor:

It is with dismay that I read your June 15 editorial "Cutting Through," concerning the proposed emergency- only connection between Tollgate Village and Bel Air Acres

Your statement "Such a link, no doubt, would turn into a shortcut, possibly an irritating one," completely misses the truth and focal point of the issue, namely that the Harford County government, the Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company, other emergency groups and the overwhelming number of homeowners in Tollgate Village strongly support the establishment of this emergency-only access point between our communities.

This proposed limited use, emergency-only connection has never been suggested as anything but a limited use, emergency- only access point. To suggest otherwise gives unwarranted support to the few residents from Bel Air Acres who suggest that it may develop into an open road. An objective look at the facts shows that the town-approved plan for Tollgate Village specified such an access point be established, and the 12 foot wide path leading to the access point has been built by the Tollgate Village developer.

In fact I welcome you to visit our area and to see for yourself that this strip could in no way support normal traffic. And we homeowners have always proposed, and are moving out to install posts and a chain across the access with only the BAVFC and other emergency personnel holding keys to the chain!

Any suggestion to the contrary belies the facts of this issue. It is indeed unfortunate that what appears to be a small minority of Bel Air Acres residents can hold both communities hostage to what is plainly a win-win situation for both communities.

My expectation is that other Bel Air Acres residents will come forward to make their desires known.

Edward G. Stauch

President, Tollgate Village HOA.