I will upset some of my friends in saying I feel the Palesky referendum should pass.

Federal data compiled at taxfoundation.org has Maine listed as 43rd in the nation for the number of days Mainers must work to pay taxes. Maine also ranks 43rd for business tax, ranks second in the country for the highest state and local tax burden and fifth highest for personal income tax.

Here are some excerpts: “At the local level, however, Maine’s property tax collections are substantial ranks 6th highest nationally” and “Maine localities collect $49 per $1,000 of income, and by this measure, Maine’s ranking rises to number 1, the highest in the nation. (Non-resident property tax payments are included in Census data.)”

I know Question 1 will have an effect on towns, but a message must be sent to Augusta. A redistribution of the tax burden is in order. Most Mainers can’t even afford our own coastal property. It is getting to the point where you need to be from Massachusetts to be able to afford to live here.

Let’s do something about it. Maine can create an environment where business can grow and jobs can be created if the citizens and businesses of Maine aren’t taxed out of their property and income.

I believe everyone should vote for the Palesky bill, take back our government and let Mainers decide how to spend their money instead of Augusta.

Robert Belanger, Mechanic Falls