To the editor:
This past week, I took the occasion to collect signatures on a petition for a group called Citizens for Responsible City Management relative to the city of Caribou. Being a citizen who has always been interested in city politics and its way of getting things done (mostly out of habit) without any input from the citizens of this community, I took it upon myself as a civic duty to play a part in trying to get a charter change (amendment) which would compel the City Council to start the city budget at zero and be accountable for each line item without frills. By drafting a more comprehensive, transparent, and justifiable budget, it will allow the citizens of Caribou to more easily understand how their tax dollars are being spent. Education on zero based budgeting will be forthcoming so the electorate will have a better understanding on what they will be voting on.
Also being involved in the collection of signatures on the petition was an education in itself and it brought to my attention just how biased some people in this community are when they’re not paying their fair share of taxes and especially when they’re tied to the hip with city government at the expense of the private sector taxpayers. One sure thing is that they could never be friends with our vice president Joe Biden who once said everyone should be proud to pay taxes.
I want to say we were successful in our endeavor to get the signatures needed for a ballot vote and I want to thank all the concerned citizens who readily signed my petition papers and would hope that they would all do their civic duty and get out and vote up or down on this item regardless of where they stand. I can tell you that, for all of us who would like to see this passed, we are going to inspire all citizens that have never voted before to get out and do their civic duty and cast their ballot.
The apathy syndrome that exists in this community can be overcome if you’re willing to get out and vote for change that could affect your lives forever. We must garnish enough votes to offset the large public servant vote that has had complete control in the past. Remember one thing, it’s your private sector money that provides all the financial support to pay for all the city’s liabilities.
I would also like to thank the group that is spearheading this movement. Believe me when I say they only have the best interest of this community at heart.
Caribou
