Twice, Monmouth voters have rejected the planning board’s budget. The June 14 ballot asked for approval of a budget of about $17,000. The Aug. 1 ballot requested approval of a budget of about $10,000. Both requests lumped the planning board’s budget with the dues for Kennebec Valley Council of Governments, which are about $5,000. The Nov. 8 ballot separates the planning board’s budget from the KVCOG dues, so they can be voted on individually.

The planning board continues to operate without a budget. Its functions are too valuable to the town for it not to continue. The planning board enforces ordinances that protect our environment with a primary focus on lakes, streams and wetlands. The board works on regulating large developments as well as any building project that takes place near water. In summary, the planning board’s activities protect all landowners.

KVCOG exists as an agency to promote community cooperation and collaboration. It is owned and operated by its 53 member towns and cities. It returned $4.26 to its members for every $1 invested. Monmouth’s town government makes much use of the KVCOG staff’s expertise. The benefits of our belonging outweigh the cost of the dues. Not belonging would cost the taxpayers more money than they would save by not joining.

Voting in favor of both of these articles on the Nov. 8 ballot brings benefits to the community.

Douglas Ludewig, Monmouth