It seems that many people are playing fast and loose with information this election season, so it may be time for a bit of fact checking:

* While the city of Waterville has given $200,000 to the Waterville Opera House project, that it is less than 5 percent of the $4 million cost of the project. The additions and upgrades will add tremendous value to the city-owned property and give a much needed boost to the economy, especially downtown. The vast majority of the funding comes from grants, businesses and individual donors who believe in their community.

* Waterville Main Street does outstanding work on a shoestring budget. Waterville can be proud of the vibrant downtown these volunteers bring to us. And since healthy businesses pay taxes, imagine what the local property taxes would look like if the existing local businesses were to close. We give special tax incentives for large corporations to relocate here while their profits leave the state, so why don’t we want to help the small businesses who add to the quality of life and are our friends and neighbors?

* The recreation/ski area off Quarry Road is another example of local people donating to improve the resources that are available to us. Bringing in visitors to cross-country ski will benefit local hotels, restaurants and other businesses. And residents do not have to travel far to enjoy winter recreation.

We should consider what is best for our community. Do we want to talk about how our best days are past and then do nothing? With that approach, nothing will ever change for the better. Or do we look to the future, embrace what we have and move forward with creativity and energy? Vote wisely. Future generations will depend on it.

Diane Bryan

Waterville

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