On June 14, RSU 5 — Freeport, Durham and Pownal — will be voting on next year’s budget. Since the formation of the RSU, I have had problems with the costs going up every year. This year is no exception.

The school board is proposing a $2.9 million bond to build a new athletic complex. The bond will be over 15 years. Can taxpayers afford it?

Jobs are hard to find, Brunswick Naval Air Station has closed, inflation is up, fuel prices are up, the state and federal governments are digging holes with deficit spending. Should the towns be doing the same?

What will happen next year? Another bond to fund additions to the high school? Higher taxes because more teachers are needed? Where will that money come from?

When will the contract with the teachers be settled? Where is the money for that?

Residents of these towns need to vote on June 14 and let the school board know that the silent majority can and will be heard.

I believe the towns should keep taxes down and live within a budget. I will vote no on the school budget proposal on June 14.

Norman White, Durham