The uncollected sewer bills in Norridgewock top $30,000, and recording liens on overdue accounts would guarantee payment.

That’s why the action is required under the town’s sewer ordinance.

The town treasurer, Charlotte Curtis, decided not to file liens on overdue accounts, using the excuse of poor people who have lost their jobs, and therefore shifting those costs to other ratepayers.

Her action would have been all right if she also assumed the personal responsibility of payment of those sewer bills.

Towns have experienced that most overdue accounts get paid when liens go onto properties.

For those truly in need of assistance, Curtis could have, outside of the town office, organized some fund raising functions. I have personally paid some sewer bills, water bills and real estate taxes for some residents who were up against it financially and couldn’t pay on their own.

When I see an elected official making her own rules when it comes to money owed the town, it really gets under my skin. That is the public’s money, after all, and not her personal money.

Norridgewock is fortunate to have a town manager like Michelle Flewelling. She is competent and applies the town’s rules fairly to every one equally and has a nice way of working with the public and town employees.

I would like to see the town’s selectmen hold Curtis personally responsible for any financial losses caused by her actions.

Ronald Currier

Norridgewock

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