Twitter
Facebook
Reddit
Digg
Tell us what you think!Send a letter to the editor about this or any other article in The Maine Campus.
The much anticipated referendum occurs in just a few weeks, on Nov. 4. The referendum vote will pose six questions, the majority of them addressing placement of state funds, and two unique issues involving the introduction of gambling into the state of Maine. Below, the six issues are quickly outlined.
Question 1:
Understanding that local property taxes include the cost of public education for that local area, Question 1 proposes for the state to pay for 55 percent of the cost public education, rather than include those costs in local taxes. Supporters argue that the change would allow local taxes to be lowered, namely property tax.
Question 2:
Question 2 aims to lower prescription drug costs for the elderly and provide scholarships to state universities and technical colleges. Completing these goals involves allowing slot machines at certain commercial horse racing tracks.
Question 3:
This much publicized citizen initiative asks if casinos should be allowed in Maine if part of the revenue contributes to state education and municipal revenue sharing.
Question 4:
The first of several bond issues, Question 4 asks where to place nearly $7 million. The priority for the funding is geared toward construction of water pollution control facilities, cleanup sites for uncontrolled hazardous substances, and water sources that will help avoid damage to crops. Other amounts of money would be designated for environmental grants.
Question 5:
Another bond issue which addresses the allocation of $19 million. Question 5 suggests giving the money to the University of Maine System, Maine Maritime Academy and the Maine Community College system so that these schools can improve their handicap accessibility and renovate their libraries so electronic resources are open to the public.
Question 6:
Question 6 involves the allocation of nearly $64 million for the improvements of highways, bridges, airports, railroads and state-owned ferry vessels.
Bangor Daily News