The Lisbon Reporter

WELCOME TO THE LISBON REPORTER. In an effort to keep our community informed of what is going on at local and Federal levels of government, we decided to create this on-line newspaper. It is our hope that this on-line newspaper will help you stay informed so that you can get involved and take action for the benefit of our ENTIRE community. Thank you for visiting and please check back frequently for information about what is happening in LISBON/LISBON FALLS, MAINE USA

Monday, November 21, 2011

Lights Out In Lisbon For Lack Of Common Cents!

COMMON SENSE

In an effort to save tax dollars, the Town Council voted to turn off streetlights. Now, the Town of Lisbon is dark and susceptible to crime. Councilor Mason, what does this do for your “Main Street” project? The Town Council is trying to conserve your tax dollars which is commendable but misguided.

Let’s look at a more viable solution. What would be the tax dollar savings if the Police and Fire Departments were consolidated to form the Public Safety Department? We currently have a Fire Chief who is not fully qualified to be a Fire Chief and we are fortunate enough to have a Deputy Fire Chief who is fully qualified and has all the credentials plus is a member of the Maine Fire Chief's Association. Why in the world should the taxpayers continue to pay for a Fire Chief who does not possess the credentials when we have a fully qualified Deputy Fire Chief? The tax dollars savings is over $70,000.00 dollars annually (the current Fire Chief’s salary plus use of a town vehicle).

By consolidating the two departments and letting the current Fire Chief go, the Town of Lisbon can save $70,000.00 dollars annually. This solution would not reduce or eliminate any services provided to the citizens of Lisbon. However, it would enable the streetlights to remain on and would not put our residents at risk. Having the streetlights out puts our people at risk and increases the possibility of crime. Since both of these options are public safety issues which makes more sense to you?

Keep in mind, with the streetlights out Brooks will be looking for additional funds to increase his police force next year. Why are we continually shooting ourselves in the foot when common sense can provide a reasonable and profitable solution to the problem?

Larry Fillmore
Concerned Citizen

11/22/2011

Updated 7:00 pm

Yes! Your right. One point ,, we could start up an aux police dept to work with the others. The aux dept would be made up of citizens who volunteered. Keep up the good work
Vern

11/22/2011
Updated 7:11 pm
There are so many law enforcement officers that all ready live in Lisbon and Lisbon Falls why do we even need the Lisbon Police Academy?
Signed,
Russ Thiboutot