https://www.boothbayregister.com/article/they-are-called-facts-edgecomb-citizens-tax-group-responds/255758

Dear Editor: 

A graphical representation of tabular data is not a misrepresentation. It’s the same data presented in a different format. The current Maine DOE* data shows a progressive decline in Eddy standardized test scores relative to surrounding schools. The science scores are equally if not more disturbing.  Test scores are only one metric, but when other metrics such as a school’s Niche Rating show a similar decline, the trend is cause for concern and further analysis.   

The Saturday (3/8/25) presentation focused primarily on the school’s budget.  Analysis of that budget shows a persistent pattern of overestimated expenses combined with underestimated revenue, resulting in large surpluses of money being spent without taxpayer oversight.  Here again, comparison with surrounding schools shows a disturbing trend.   

Our costs are higher, particularly in salary and benefits. Other schools like Nobleboro and Great Salt Bay are achieving higher metrics at a lower per student cost*.  What are they doing that we are not? Disparaging the messenger when one doesn’t like the message is one approach.  Rarely does it solve a problem.  

*Department of Education, see https://www.maine.gov/doe/dashboard 

Kathryn Rohr MD  

Edgecomb 

https://www.boothbayregister.com/article/baseless-accusations/255761

Dear Editor: 

A recent letter claimed that the Edgecomb Citizens’ Tax Group is a source of disinformation. Nothing could be further from the truth. Our group is committed to transparency, accountability, and fact-based analysis. Every piece of information we present is thoroughly vetted and sourced directly from state, national, and local databases—publicly available for anyone to verify. 

It was also suggested that there were issues with our data. The only identified concern was a minor labeling issue on the Y-axis of a couple of graphs—an oversight that in no way changed the underlying data. The information was clear, but to avoid any confusion, we have since updated and labeled the graphs on our website Edgecomb.me for full clarity. 

Furthermore, our data reveals a troubling trend: a steady decline in Maine state school rankings, with Edgecomb now ranked 131st, next to last in Lincoln County. This is not opinion—it is fact, based on publicly available state education data. This decline raises serious concerns about both student outcomes and the return on taxpayer investment, and it is precisely why informed discussions about school spending and accountability are so important.  

We believe taxpayers deserve clear and accurate information about how their money is being spent. Instead of dismissing our work with baseless accusations, we encourage those who question our findings to review the data themselves—because the facts speak for themselves.  

Healthy debate is essential in any community, but it should be rooted in facts, not misinformation. We welcome discussions, questions, and differing opinions, but let’s ensure they are based on truth, not rhetoric. Our goal is simple: to provide Edgecomb residents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their town’s future. 

Stuart Smith 

Edgecomb 

https://www.boothbayregister.com/article/re-edgecomb-property-tax-reform/255759

Dear Editor: 

As former finance director for the City of Rockland, and school board member for SAD 5, I had the wonderful experience to attend an informative taxpayer meeting on 3/08/25 at Edgecomb Town Hall.  An astute citizens group presented valuable facts and figures to support the taxpayers’ demands for property tax reform.  Although voluminous, the large screen, along with taxpayer discussion, delivered enlightenment and direction to allow this municipality to evolve from inefficient spending, to modern and smart decision making at all levels of tax dollar expending.   

My experience as finance director for municipalities in both Maine and Pennsylvania gives me the insight to recognize municipal situations that clearly demonstrate the need for reform, and where taxpayers are in desperate need for advocacy when administrations have lost sight of their (taxpayers) concerns.  I believe this newly-formed citizens’ group is on the right track and with voter support, shall bring Edgecomb into the 21st Century with more palatable annual millage rate increases in the future. 

Robert M. Armelin 

South Thomaston 

https://www.boothbayregister.com/article/unsustainable/255337

Dear Editor:

Last year when concerns were raised about the 34% increase in real estate taxes, the Edgecomb budget committee and school committee said: This is “an anomaly” – this is the result of “necessary accommodations” to a few school children in the Eddy School. Last year our real estate taxes increased by 34% (in one year… up by 34%!) – and this year they want to raise our taxes again! Last year – we told the select board and the budget committee this is unsustainable. Now, our taxes may increase again. I repeat: This is unsustainable!

We taxpayers in Edgecomb need to do something about it. I applaud the Edgecomb Citizen’s Tax Group for raising awareness and convening on this issue. My husband and I have been paying real estate taxes in Edgecomb since 1989; for more than three decades; we love living in a small town – however, our resources are limited.

Don’t you think the million dollar increase from last year’s school budget should be removed? – As we learned recently “the necessary accommodations” are no longer needed. This is our town: all the departments and committees, the select board and the school board work for the residents of Edgecomb and we must not let the town finances get out of control. People, families have already been forced to move by the abrupt and continued increase in the tax rate. I imagine there will be more residents who cannot afford the tax burden here. Many if not most of our residents are of retirement age – and live on fixed incomes. Young families cannot afford the tax burden, either. I wonder how many Edgecomb Eddy school teachers or administrators live in Edgecomb?

The school and the other town departments must learn to manage with a smaller budget. Please join all the upcoming meetings and speak up! In this uncertain world – our town and our  town’s budget is one place over which we can have control. Let’s get our taxes back to where they belong.

Gale Willauer

Edgecomb

https://www.boothbayregister.com/article/enough-enough/255090

Dear Editor:

Recently, I wrote about the rising cost of elementary school in our town and the school board’s disregard for taxpayers’ concerns. Unfortunately, rather than listening to the community, the board has now approved yet another spending increase—this time by a staggering 10%. Last year it was over 30%.

This continued pattern of unchecked spending is unacceptable. Families and homeowners are already struggling under the weight of ever-increasing taxes, yet the school board seems determined to push forward without real accountability or justification. What cost-cutting measures were considered? How does this directly benefit students in a way that is both necessary and responsible?

We are past the point, enough is enough. Taxpayers should not be treated as an endless source of revenue. We demand transparency, fiscal responsibility, and a school board that respects the financial realities of the people who fund these schools. It may be time for new leadership that prioritizes both quality education and responsible spending.

I encourage every concerned resident to attend the next school board meeting or contact the school board, ask tough questions, and demand answers. Our voices must be heard before it is too late.

Stuart Smith

Edgecomb

https://www.boothbayregister.com/article/frustrated-edgecombs-school-board/254923

Dear Editor:

I am writing to express my frustration with the rising cost of elementary school in our town and the apparent disregard the school board has for taxpayers’ concerns. Education is undoubtedly a vital investment, but the financial burden placed on families and homeowners has reached an unsustainable level.

Despite repeated requests for transparency and fiscal responsibility, the school board continues to approve budgets that increase taxes without adequately addressing efficiency or accountability. Many families are struggling with these costs, yet our voices seem to go unheard. We all want the best for our children, but that should not mean open-ended spending without consideration for those footing the bill.

It is time for the school board to recognize that their duty is not only to students but also to the taxpayers who fund the system. We need responsible financial planning, clear justifications for rising expenses, and a commitment to balancing quality education with fiscal prudence. I urge my fellow residents to speak up and demand accountability from our elected officials.

Stuart Smith

Edgecomb