Highway Fund diversions
I would like to cautiously applaud Mark Anderson’s “Maine Roads Stink” piece in the July 26 issue of the Bangor Daily News. His premise that a user fee is the appropriate way to fund the cost of our highways is spot on in my opinion. The concept that users only pay for what they actually use and that what they do pay directly funds the cost of providing the services they use — highway infrastructure, in this case — is the unadulterated description of “dedicated revenue.”
The “caution” of my applause recognizes the past reality the so-called Highway Fund is not fully dedicated to funding the services the use of taxed motor fuel implies. Any legislative initiative that requires funding also includes identifying the funding source. My observation of past reality is that it is far more expedient to tap existing revenue streams than establish a new one. The result of this reality is that the supposedly dedicated Highway Fund is tapped to pay for things tires will never touch. Building bicycle lanes, subsidizing public transportation, creating pedestrian walkways and recreational trails all come to mind. These are desireable initiatives, which have general public support.
Until such time as revenues are truly dedicated to the intended purpose, existing revenue streams — in this case the Highway Fund — will remain as backdoor funding opportunities for pet projects initiated by enthusiastic legislators. In the meantime, I am afraid I will have to pass on endorsing Anderson’s suggestion to increase the gas tax in lieu of approving proposed highway bond issues.
Bill Sutter
Wiscasset
Abortion help
There are too many women who are talked into getting an abortion. Making this decision causes pain and grief. These women need compassion, not finger pointing.
Help is available through a program called Project Rachel. This post-abortion healing ministry of the Catholic Church is open to anyone who is struggling with a loss. A network of specially trained clergy, spiritual directors and therapists provide compassionate one-on-one care.
The program was founded in 1984 in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee by Vicki Thorn. For more information, visit ccmaine.org/psm or call 800-781-8550.
Joseph Riitano Sr.
Sangerville
Sebec roads meeting
The town of Sebec will hold an annual meeting at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10, at the Harland A. Ladd Municipal Building. Various articles will be considered that may have an effect on the road maintenance management of the town’s roads.
If you are concerned about the poor condition of the roads in our town and the negative effect they have on property value, vehicles and quality of life, please plan to attend to voice your concerns. Make your vote count.
At a special town meeting on May 27, two committees were formed to explore ways in which the town could better manage the maintenance of our roads to insure a positive future for our community.
The first committee is to write a road work bid ordinance for work exceeding $5,000 to be presented to the voters. The second was tasked with developing a five- and 10-year program of road planning and maintenance. Their findings will be discussed at the Aug. 10 meeting.
We are fortunate to live in this beautiful and unique town, and it is the responsibility of its residents to improve and preserve it for the future.
I hope to see you at the town meeting.
Bill Eckhardt
Don Rush
Sebec