In his letter, Rep Thomas Shields (Sept. 18) points his finger at all Democrats as being responsible for all the financial problems of our state government.

He does not mention that members of his party refused to allow a bond issue on the ballot this November that would, if passed, have brought federal funds to help the state in badly needed construction projects, water and sewer treatment facilities. According to the Natural Resources Council of Maine, “The state may lose about $80 million in federal and private matching funds.” It would also have added much needed money, $20 million, to the “Land for Maine’s Future” fund. MeadWestvaco paper company has recently sold over 600,000 acres of land to a development group that will be reselling the land. There are some very important scenic and recreational areas involved. This may be the last chance for the people of Maine to save snowmobile and hiking trails as well as very scenic recreational and hunting lands.

Nor does he have anything to say about the extremely low rating given to 98 percent of the Republican legislators by the Maine League of Conservation Voters on eight important pieces of legislation having to do with protecting our environment.

There are politicians who are willing and able to work together with those of other persuasions to seek workable solutions. We need to elect those who create solutions, not more problems. We need politicians who are open to and respectful of the ideas of others.

Nancy Willard, Woodstock

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