The inequities of the tax structures in Maine, both state and local, have certainly been analyzed as a result of Question 1.

As a former resident of Massachusetts, I can sympathize with both sides on this pressing issue. However, my experience with Prop 2 1/2 in the 1980s left me with the conclusion that its damage was far greater than its intended effect. Many services were reduced, jobs and careers disrupted with little of the expected benefit. In fact, years later, many of these same services were restored at a much greater cost to the taxpayers. Many needed projects were postponed only to resume at inflated costs much later.

Question 1 is clearly more draconian. Cutting vital public services such as fire and police, and more intrinsic areas such as education and libraries, is no solution compared to a thoughtful and detailed reform of existing tax inequities.

If all the energies that have already been expended pro and con on this bill had instead been directed toward the state and local governing bodies, Maine would probably be well on the road to meaningful reform. For all those who have engaged in writing letters to the editor, attended or worked on committees dealing with Question 1’s effects, or otherwise involved themselves in this issue know how the democratic process really works, let’s make sure that efforts don’t stop on Nov. 2.

I will vote against Question 1. I’m hoping others will join me in engaging their elected representatives to create real, nonpartisan solutions.

Eugene Petit, Auburn

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