I am writing in response to Doug Leland’s article about Freeport’s bridge replacements and the upcoming bond vote for multi-use paths (Forum: “Freeport bridges can fix the past,” Feb. 4). I’ve recently learned that if the bond passed, it would raise the tax rate by approximately 4.25 cents. This represents an increase of $4.25 annually per $100,000 valuation. Personally, as a taxpayer, I feel this is completely reasonable.

Additionally, there is a real chance these rates could be offset when the town starts collecting revenue from L.L.Bean tax increment financing (TIF). This TIF money specifically dedicates several million dollars for complete streets, paths and trails. So, it’s possible Freeport’s Town Council could decide to pay off the bond early with TIF money if they wanted to. At any rate, I agree with Doug that we have an opportunity to make a much-needed improvement right now by putting in a 12-foot multi-use path, and I encourage everyone to get out and vote “yes” on the bond.

Liz McDonald
Freeport