Another budget cycle has passed, and it appears that “fiscal responsibility” was ignored yet again.

Of budgets presented by federal, state, local and education entities, I would give passing grades only to the town budget. The others have completely ignored any need to spend within their means.

Budgets (I use this term loosely) should reflect a benefit to the taxpayers of the area, but mostly these budgets show a unified disregard for the taxpayers in general. These budgets reflect an irresponsible spending of tax dollars well beyond any sustainable levels.

The working middle and lower classes are the hardest hit of all in these times. Continuing to fleece the middle and lower classes will only speed up the financial demise of the area, state and country.

We have only shortened the time to the next economic crisis by these irresponsible budgeting practices.

Governments and schools should be supporting the taxpayers, not robbing from them.

Mike Swanholm

Readfield