LEAD donation is inappropriate

LEAD donation is inappropriate

To the editor:
    As a Presque Isle taxpayer, and a citizen opposed to the proposed easterly Presque Isle bypass, I was truly troubled to learn the proposed 2011 City budget includes a recommended $4,500 appropriation to Leaders Encouraging Aroostook Development (LEAD). From the complete budget binder, available for public inspection at the Mark & Emily Turner Memorial Library, I’ve discovered that this funding would be “used to assist with the retention of a consultant for the bypass project.” 

    LEAD hopes to “continue its relationship” with John Melrose, former Maine Commissioner of Transportation, in its persistent lobbying for an easterly Presque Isle bypass. Since 2008, the City has already contributed a grand total of $21,093 to the Caribou-based LEAD organization.
    On Monday Nov. 1st at 6 p.m., the City Council will conduct a Budget Public Hearing at which I plan to communicate my concerns about this LEAD request. Consider joining me in opposing this misuse of tax dollars, or to express your concerns about any other budget-related issue.
    Under Article 5, Section 5.4 of the City of Presque Isle Municipal Charter, City Council has the authority to amend the proposed budget before adoption. In my viewpoint, it’s Council’s responsibility to reduce or get rid of this generous LEAD line item in the final 2011 budget.