The Lisbon Board of Selectmen encourages residents to vote on May 15 for Lisbon municipal officials and referendum questions. We encourage support for three articles we have placed on the ballot.

Article 3 asks voters to establish a charter commission. This year we appointed a study committee, which conducted a survey and recommended a commission. We believe a formal process to review and suggest changes to the current form of government is warranted. If approved, the commission would be composed of nine members, three appointed and six elected at a special election. The commission would then have nine months to produce any written charter, which would be voted on by referendum. The goal of this process is to provide a more representative and democratic form of government.

Article 4 asks for bond issue approval to borrow up to $300,000 for a revaluation of all the taxable properties. The last revaluation was in 1990. We have an obligation to see that tax equity between properties is maintained. The revaluation may not be conducted until 2006; however, we must commit the financial resources now.

Article 5 asks for approval to borrow up to $368,000 to rebuild Mill Street with a sidewalk, Andrea Street and Miller Road, and provides matching funds for a MDOT bicycle and pedestrian trail from the new school on Mill Street along Mill and Upland Road.

We have tried to produce our annual budget and the referendum articles with the best interest of the taxpayers in mind.

E. Charles Smith, chairman, Lisbon Board of Selectmen

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