It just came to my attention that the Standish Town Council is trying to pass a referendum June 10 to add an addition to the town hall building.

I am usually an informed citizen but I was not aware of this. I am concerned enough that I want to bring it to the attention of all citizens. There might be others like myself who might not be aware of this.

I am not suggesting how you should vote on this issue because that is for everyone to decide individually. I just want you to be informed in the event that you are unaware of it, as I was.

I am concerned, however, because I am not convinced that a $500,000 addition to the town hall is prudent at this time. We just opened a food pantry for low income families and seniors, and there are worries and concerns for many senior citizens and low income families who cannot meet their expenses as it is in these difficult economic times. The price of gas and food is escalating at an alarming rate.

This expenditure, if approved, would be paid by a bond. When we owe a bond we are required to repay the amount of the bond as well as interest on the bond.

Our school budget has been cut to the bone. If it is necessary to cut education it would seem to me that the town is not in a good place for expansion. There are businesses closing all over town leaving vacant buildings, and many people are concerned about the welfare of their families.

I do believe that there is a time for expansion and it could be looked at in the future, but this simply doesn’t seem to me to be the time.

I have additional concerns about this referendum. The way it is written calls for a capital expenditure in the amount of $1,210,750 to include an ambulance for $180,000, ball field restoration for 9,000, a plow truck with plow gear for $129,000, a four wheel drive loader (used) for $55,000, public works facility expansion $50,000, snowthrower attachment for $17,500, pavement maintenance for $125,000 and road rehabilitation and upgrades for $145,000. The way it’s written you must accept all or nothing.

My plan is to vote no on this question June 10. If it passes I will then go to the Town Meeting June 14 and ask for a motion to separate these items out so that we can vote for some items and then vote down the things that seem to me to be luxuries at this time.

Elizabeth Perry

Standish