I recently read the final report of the L-A Commission on Joint Services. I also attended a presentation of the commission’s work by co-chairmen Robert Clifford and Donna Steckino.

The findings and recommendations make so much sense. Once implemented, the savings to taxpayers will be significant. Said savings may not show up as reductions, but rather in smaller increases in our tax bill.

After recommending a merger of the two cities more than 35 years ago, I was particularly pleased to read paragraph four: The Merger Possibility.

If we are to enjoy real savings, a merger must happen, and the sooner the better. After some 30 years of Democratic control in Augusta, leading to Maine citizens being the highest taxed people in the country, with no change in sight, we have an opportunity to at least start saving locally.

Finally, as one looks over the list of members of the commission, it is clear that it takes busy people to undertake such a task. Imagine meeting weekly for more than a year. We owe them all a debt of gratitude.

Marcel R. Morin, Lewiston