I read your editorial of Oct. 19, “All nonprofits vital to creation of jobs in Maine.”

I would like to suggest that there is some damage that results from the nonprofits in Maine, which can impact on job creation, as I have experienced it.

There is also an impact on both state and municipal revenues, as the nonprofits are not subject to the same tax liability as a business.

Consider these thoughts: The Maine Municipal Association, were it a consulting company specializing in municipal accounts, would pay equipment and property tax on the desks, the building, the computers, etc.

The Maine Writers & Publishers Alliance, which has competed with my business for book sales, would also pay taxes, as my business does.

The University of Maine competes with my company as well, both for printing and publishing. Therefore less tax revenue for the state government!

When I acquired my business, we printed for about 20 physician’s offices in town. Now they all fall under the umbrella of the local hospital, where the last time I checked, they were having their printing done by a nonprofit in Ohio.

Now in addition to the tax revenue lost directly, these organizations reduce the productivity, drive prices down, as the for profit businesses will lower their pricing to compete, so it suppresses the market and leaves the tax paying endeavors with less revenue with which to hire and expand.

I think personally that there are a lot of nonprofits that should be for profit companies.

Maine needs the tax revenue. Town schools need the revenue, and the for profit companies competing, need the business and the opportunity to compete on a level playing field.

Don McIntire

Farmington

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