Maine Land Bank & Community Preservation Committee
Jenks Road
Chebeague Island, ME

December 23, 2002 

Dear Friend,

Property taxes are on everyone’s mind these days, and with good reason.  We don’t know of one candidate who ran for election or re-election last November who didn’t make a pledge to do everything possible to lower local property taxes.

A group of citizens from Harpswell and Chebeague Island has developed a plan that addresses the most visible and painful aspect of today’s property tax dilemma, that of people being forced to sell their homes and/or businesses because of escalating taxes they simply can no longer manage to pay.  The Maine Land Bank & Community Preservation proposal doesn’t pretend to address all of the tax problems faced by the State, but it is a simple and cost-free way to solve this one problem and to help preserve the identity and vitality of Maine’s communities while there is still time to do so.

We invite you to attend an informational presentation to learn what the Maine Land Bank proposal is all about so that you may be better informed when it comes before the legislature this session:

Wednesday, January 15, 2003
7:00 pm
Yarmouth
Harrison Middle School
 (click for directions)
(Snow date:  January 22)

We truly believe our program has to be seen to be believed.  Come and learn how significant tax relief can be granted at no cost to the State or local municipalities and how, in fact, the program could save the State money.  Let us demonstrate to you an innovative yet practical program that does not shift the tax burden to other taxpayers and actually lowers the overall tax rate over time.

Our idea has received considerable attention from the media and support from a diverse group of taxpayers and legislators.  You owe it to yourself, to your town or city and to your constituents to be as fully informed as possible about this pending legislation.

So please join us on January 15 to learn about the Maine Land Bank, what it is and what it is not, and to have your questions about this exciting idea answered.

Sincerely,
 
/s/David R. Hill, Organizer