Can anyone tell me why the downsizing or closure of my local jail is not receiving more attention? My understanding is the state, by threats and bullying, is dictating how and where tax dollars will be spent.

Oxford County Jail is paid for. The plan is to lay off employees, close half of the jail, move inmates to other county jails and pay those counties to care for local inmates.

I have heard that will save the county between $160,000-$200,000. That savings will not stay here, or be reflected in local taxes. The state would take any savings and use it in other counties.

Why aren’t people questioning the wisdom of the takeover? Where are the local representatives on this? Can the state guarantee local taxes will not go up, or that the grandiose plan will work?

I am lucky to be employed. My concern is for the impact the plan will have on the towns, not just today, but in the future.

I don’t need the state acting as a benevolent uncle deciding what is best for me. State officials do not have the best interests of the towns at heart; they have only their own interests. They are like a hungry beast with a tapeworm – no one should take what they say as the whole truth.

Arlene Kerr, South Paris