Can’t we, for once, listen to Gov. Paul LePage? The past tax increase that was short-lived did not have the benefit of eliminating the state income tax.

We need to do a little math. The small amount of tax isn’t likely to hurt the businessman. I really doubt that John Q. Public will stop buying snacks for pennies in tax, or going to the movie for a 0.65 increase.

Tourists are used to paying hefty taxes at home. They are still going to buy Maine lobster and lots of other things from our stores and continue to stay in our rental properties. Some states have state, county and city taxes. It hasn’t slowed traffic in those states.

The Maine businessman will save thousands by not having to pay state income tax. Maine would take a big jump in business friendly status, perhaps as much as a 10 percent gain. That is a lot.

If people are worried about the effects of dropping income tax and increasing some sales taxes, then we could “sunset” the new changes for at least two or three years. Our governor is very financially savvy. He certainly isn’t going to try any move that will allow his critics to crow over his failure. We need to stop with the party tug of war. The legislators are our elected, paid servants; they are not there for their party’s beliefs.

Louise Marcoux Bowker

Waterville


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