Brandy L. Coulombe, in her letter Jan. 25, shares information that very few people are aware of: the Elizabeth Levinson Center is the only facility for handicapped children run by the state of Maine.

I am guardian for my grandson, who was in the center for 14 years. I had considered a number of privately run homes before placing him in ELC. After seeing other facilities, I did not feel that they could meet his needs. Due to his age, we have moved him to a private home.

We supported the center, and will continue to as long as the state runs it. The closing of the facility is not a new idea. When Gov. King was in office, the issue came up. He was asked to visit the center. After meeting with the children, family members of the children and having a tour of the facility, he said it would not close. The present governor has not visited the center.

Need I say more?

According to my legislator, cuts have to be made someplace. Yet, within the last few weeks, legislative leaders voted to award their staff a 3 percent cost-of-living increase as well as another 3 percent for the following year. The estimated cost is $1.2 million, an expense that will be embedded in the next two-year budget, as well as every one after that, despite a looming $100 million hole in the budget.

Nice choice.

Ralph Perkins, Auburn