Dear Editor:

I am running for the office of Selectman of the town of Wiscasset on a platform of putting in place a process for stabilizing the tax burden of the citizens of Wiscasset.

During the budget process this year, it was sobering to learn of the condition of some of our departments and facilities. In working to keep the tax rate down, we have deferred many capital expenditures. However good the intentions, this has resulted in a backlog of capital expenses

I see the problem as a town that has more amenities than the tax base can comfortably afford. However, when the taxpayers are presented with an option to eliminate a department or a facility, they vote to retain it. Like many towns we read about in Maine that lose their largest taxpayer when a mill or factory closes, Maine Yankee not only provided jobs but paid a substantial share of our real estate taxes

If the taxpayers wish to maintain the amenities that we have and still have an affordable tax rate, we must look at several things. We must look at what we are doing and ask questions. Do we need to do it? Is there a better way of doing it? We should look at what we are doing as if we are building it from the ground up.

Additionally, we must broaden the tax base. We can do this by attracting new homeowners or businesses into the town and onto our tax rolls. This is not easy, and it takes time. It is particularly important that we do this while maintaining the character of our town

To move this process along, we need to hire a part-time or full-time planner/economic development person. Someone who a builder/developer or homeowner could meet with to discuss options and work with the planning board and others to move projects along. This and managing what we have in a businesslike manner can be the road to stabilizing the tax rate in Wiscasset.

I ask for your vote at the September 8 town election.

Bill Maloney

Wiscasset