I read about the tree cutting in Rumford with interest (Nov. 6, Nov. 10). I agree that the selectmen should not have cut the trees, but that is not the point of this letter.
The incident is a perfect example of how cities can save money by contracting out some jobs instead of using city employees. The article states that a Peru contractor would have cut the trees and cleaned up the mess for $300. The estimate for public works employees to clean up the tree debris was “about $550,” and the trees were already cut down.
I hope that Auburn taxpayers, and especially the newly elected officials, pay attention and look for jobs that can be done cheaper by private companies.
When a job is done by a private contractor, there is a one-time cost. There are no future costs to consider, such as unemployment, retirement or insurance to pay.
In times like these, we have to look for every possible way to save money.
Douglas Libbey, Auburn
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