ROCKLAND, Maine — The City Council may add its voice to those opposed to proposed cuts in the state’s health care program for low-income residents.
Councilor Elizabeth Dickerson has sponsored a resolve in an effort to convince the states to not make the cuts.
“The Rockland City Council encourages the Legislature and the Governor to seek budgetary alternatives that do not put Maine’s most vulnerable citizens at increased risk,” the resolve states.
Dickerson argues that elimination of people from the MaineCare program and the reduction in services to those remaining on the program will hurt municipalities, the local hospital and nonprofit organizations in the region. She said the services provided by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services provide a minimal safety net.
Mayor Brian Harden said he normally does not support resolves that involve other levels of government since it is not within the jurisdiction of the council. But he said he supports this one because of the direct impact it would have on the city.
The city’s community development director has been asked to compile the specific monetary impact of the proposed cuts on Rockland. That information has yet to be developed.
One area the city will look at is the general assistance budget. Rockland’s general assistance budget for 2011-2012 is $45,264, a 19 percent increase from the previous year.
The Mayor does not support anything unless it has something to do with spending money.Or fighting with other members of the council. I hope someone runs against him in November.
The fraudsters think it’s just fine. Honest people Don’t!
Save the funds for those that Truly need it.
Report Fraud in Maine
Allegations of fraud or attempted fraud involving funds, including Food Stamps,
administered by the Department of Health and Human Services should be sent to:
Fraud, Investigation and Recovery
11 State House Station
Whitten Road
Augusta, Maine 04333-0011
Phone numbers for DHHS Fraud office are:
1-207-287-2409 and 1-800-442-6003
Further questions and suspicions can also be submitted by e-mail.
Fraud.Dhhs@maine.gov
For Additional Fraud, Attempted or Suspected,
Contact the Office of the Attorney General
Phone: 207-626-8800
Mailing Address:
Office of the Attorney General
6 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333
http://www.maine.gov/ag/contact.html
Do All three, Phone, E-mail and send a Letter.
Follow-up in 30 days with a Certified letter if no response.
Send a letter Directly to the Governor’s Office, that should get their attention.
Keep a written log of actions and attempts to notify.
Hold them Responsible!