I thought it was time to speak to the One LA opportunity that is coming in November, 2017. As a member of the previous commission, it was our position to find ways for the two cities to reduce back office costs to save taxpayer dollars. I believe we did good work on this goal and some changes, indeed, occurred.

There are people in the two cities who have willingly devoted many, many hours of their time to look at becoming One LA. I am carefully reading the yeas and nays on this issue. The unkind remarks need to stop. People need look at discussions that may resolve some of the emotional negativity that swirls around this opportunity to change the picture and move forward to create a stronger economic climate that has everyone pulling in one direction, raising the stature and continuing to build a Maine city that can be the best place to live, learn, work and play, all while enjoying the many cultural opportunities available.

With that in mind, I am offering, in my home, an opportunity for my residential area to come together and meet with one of the members of the commission. It will be one way to have people decide how to vote, based on accurate, up-to-date information and what One LA means for the two cities.

I hope others will offer this time to rationally discuss why this is very important and significant for the changing times in which we are living

Bette Swett-Thibeault, Lewiston

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