We understand that many small towns in central Maine are struggling and have struggled with town budgets, but my husband and I, who are tax-paying residents in Livermore Falls, are completely disappointed and frankly disgusted that, at a recent selectboard meeting, funds for the Livermore Falls Downtown Betterment Group (an all-volunteer group) were slashed.

The funds, a mere $1,000, pale in comparison to the good that this group has provided during the past several years. We cannot imagine what the board members who voted against this were thinking.

We find their decision very myopic in vision and not in the best interests of the people whom they represent, both in the short term and the long term.

Just ask any member of the LFDBG what they have accomplished — the list is long and impressive. The group’s activities have benefited adult citizens, youth and many businesses, as well as the general appearance of our little downtown.

They put in endless hours to make some of the annual major activities happen, things that bring families together and create a sense of community — something that all kids need if they are to feel proud and interested in their hometown.

The board of selectmen should be ashamed.

Cindy Rehagen Langewisch and Nicholas Rehagen, Livermore Falls