[Local-Maine-Schools] A response from Senator Schneider

[Dick Atlee]

Since Senator Schneider asked that her thoughts be shared, I'm doing so.

Dick,

This is an email I wrote recently to a constituent.  I thought instead
of writing a new email I would just send this one to you since it gives
my position and thoughts on the issue.  I do want you to know it is
possible an amendment may be offered that I may support. I will have to
see what is offered.

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I share many of your concerns about the school administration
consolidation piece of the budget.  There seems to be
little disagreement about the need to reduce cost when it comes to
school administration, however the path and timeline we take to get
there is what is troubling many of us.

There is no question from what I have experienced in my short time in
the senate, that if the money must be found to fill the hole in the
budget from pulling the school administration consolidation out, it will
be found.  The question is,  will the budget pass with 2/3rds support
with the school administration piece in it?  As the budget is now, I am
not able to support it.

I have said for months to my colleagues I do not disagree with the goal
of reducing costs and in fact is support it, but I do not believe this
piece of policy should be embedded in the budget and it should be pulled
out.  It is clear from the rising costs of taxes citizens will revolt.
We must take action to control costs. Controlling and reducing costs are
key to lowering property taxes.

We have enough studies on this issue, it is time to act, but we need
time to do this correctly.  I think much more involvement at the local
level is critical for success when making such complex changes.  I would
much rather see us set cost targets and dates at the municipal/school
district level and offer guidance when it is requested so that the
necessary changes occur to meet the goals.  This process takes time,
much more than in the budget as it is proposed today gives.

There is much pressure on all of us.  Unless there are substantial
changes to the budget I will not be in a posture of giving it my support.
Frankly, from talking with people around the district about the issue I
have a lot of support for my position.

Thank you for your email.  Please let other folks know what my position
is, if they disagree with me please have them email me because I have
yet to hear from anyone in favor of the plan as it is now.

Best regards,
Senator Elizabeth M. Schneider
District 30

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Maine Senate District 30
Alton, Argyle, Bradford, Edinburg, Enfield, Greenbush, Howland, Hudson,
Kingman, LaGrange, Lee, Lincoln, Mattawamkeag, Maxfield, Old Town,
Orono, Passadumkeag, Penobscot Indian Island, Springfield, Twombly,
Veazie, Webster, Winn