Where is citizen input?

8 years ago

To the editor:

As a Houlton elected official, I often wonder if you are aware of the decisions we make and if they align with “your priorities”. Many times you are merely referred to as “the taxpayers” I say it myself). 

Well, let’s personify that a bit, shall we? Who are you? Do you wonder, let alone truly know, how your tax dollars are actually spent? What services do you expect to receive for your investment? Because, in reality, you make the deposit into the checking account we authorize the expenditures for.

The reason I am posing these questions is because few people are expressing their views, concerns or vision. Please, let me gently remind you, it is you that has put us here, and it is you that the seven of us serve.   Please, attend meetings, show up and let us hear your voice. Call us, send letters, write letters to the editor, stand up and speak — for your own sake, your children and parents.  

Have you accepted false opinions that you don’t pay taxes because you rent? Ah, but the property taxes are absorbed in your rent. You are a taxpayer.  Are you a business owner and don’t dare say anything for fear of retribution? Who are you, Houlton?

Decisions are continually made that affect short- and long-term results of your community. Don’t be engulfed by the false thinking your opinion doesn’t matter. Please speak up.  

You can contact me regarding any of your concerns or vision for our community at  rmcnallycouncil@hotmail.com  and you can reach your other council members or town manager by calling the town office at 532-7111.

Rosa McNally

Houlton Town Council