Mexico’s budget meeting of March 21 was opened with reference to a letter Town Manager John Madigan had written to all department heads. The point of the letter was that any items not absolutely necessary to fund a department should be taken out.

That was followed by an explanation of what would happen to Mexico taxpayers should Gov. Paul LePage’s budget proposal pass. It boiled down that if the governor’s plan passes, a taxpayer in Mexico with a $100,000 home would pay $699 more in property tax, and a person with a $50,000 home would see a $349 increase.

Also to consider — what the Mexico selectmen will be adding to the town’s budget this year.

For me, those are real scary numbers. My first thought is that budget must be cut. But as the budget process began in the Mexico meeting, the first department request presented was approved unanimously by selectmen. Other requests were also approved.

As a member of the Budget Committee, I have voiced my concern about the uncertainty of the future of the mill and the unknown outcome of the state budget.

Year after year, I, along with others, do our best to keep people informed, and we try very hard to control taxes.

Residents need to be informed and to make up their own minds. The public holds the power on voting day. It is up to them to take control and vote “no.”

They can choose to complain then sit home and not vote, or take a stand and vote.

Marjorie Richard, Mexico