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Single Digit Response

Ted Pelkey has been trying to move his business from Swanton, Vt., to a larger garage he wants to build on his 11 acre property near Westford. “We’ve been trying to put a business there for the past 10 years,” Pelkey said. “It’s just never ending.” Like what? Westford’s Development Review Board says the permit was denied because of missing information in the application. Pelkey has provided a public response to the denial — in the form of a $4,000, 700 pound wood middle finger. The seven foot tall sculpture is perched on top of a 16 foot pole on the property, pointing toward Westford. Because the sculpture is considered artwork and not advertising, it’s allowed within the town’s zoning regulations. According to Pelkey’s lawyer, the Review Board’s rejection was appealed to a mediator, and they’re awaiting a decision. (MS/Burlington Free Press) ...Pelkey has pointed out the issue clearly.