I was so happy to see that Lewiston City Administrator James Bennett’s guidance and leadership has been extended for another five years, with a very nice salary and perks. Of course, that news was released just prior to the new tax bills being mailed. Could that have been intentional, or just coincidence?

Along with the tax bill was a newsletter from the All-America city expounding upon some of the wonderful economic development our city officials have embraced. To quote a partial paragraph, “The excitement about development in Lewiston continues. Since 2000, Lewiston has had $206 million in new investment built downtown, and a total of $374 million citywide.”

Now, because of that growth, I would think my taxes would be reduced, but to the contrary, they went up $322. Then I thought about the rain tax, which is supposed to save me money on my taxes. I’m not sure how much in savings, as I don’t understand the math applied by our city leaders, and my true feelings could not be printed.

It would seem to me that the city should curtail all development, as I don’t know how much longer I will be able to subsidize those endeavors and continue to live, or should I say, exist, in this All-America city.

P.S. Don’t forget, the city is still not at 100 percent valuation.

Richard Smith, Lewiston