Readers’ Forum

Don Pilon supports Saco seniors

Saco Mayor Don Pilon proposed a program to the City Council to help seniors remain in their homes and not worry about rising property taxes.

The Senior Tax Deferral Program was passed into law by the state legislature in an effort to keep Maine seniors in their homes without fear of losing them because of spiraling property taxes. Seniors living on fixed incomes and especially those living along the ocean, rivers and lakes are being taxed out of their homes because property values in these areas have increased significantly by supply and demand.

Out-of-staters believe Maine’s real estate prices are a bargain compared to prices in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, etc. However, the unfortunate Maine native who has grown up in their generational home is being pushed out as prices climb and assessors continue to reassess properties. Tax increases are pushing fixed income seniors out of their homesteads.

The Tax Deferral Program allows seniors to continue to live in their homes with dignity and self-esteem. There are four criteria to qualify for this program:

1. The applicant must be a Maine resident

2. Must have lived in their home for 10 years of more

3. Must be 70 years or older

4. Their income cannot exceed 300 percent of Federal Poverty Level or $36,000(approx.)

Unfortunately, the Saco City Council opposed this program.

Mayor Pilon says he will reintroduce this initiative with a new council in 2016. Please join me in voting for Don Pilon for another term as Saco’s Mayor.

Jean Shore-Cabral

Saco

Supporting Michaud for Saco Mayor

Three words embody Ron Michaud: leadership, integrity, vision. I urge Saco citizens to support his candidacy for mayor on Nov. 3.

With proven leadership skills, Ron will create an atmosphere in our local government that nurtures respect, consensus building, and fact-based decision-making.

As a long-time Saco resident and experienced former mayor, Ron knows the pressing needs of our diverse community, with our coastal, rural and downtown landscapes. He understands a strong economy is the backbone to a growing, vibrant Saco and will work hard to support business development. Ron is a tireless advocate for Saco’s children, working families, and elderly citizens. His deep respect for Saco’s heritage and history is coupled with a keen sense for the need to modernize and embrace technological change. Collaboration and partnerships within the city and with surrounding communities will grow under Ron’s guiding vision.

Ron is happiest with his sleeves rolled up and a problem before him to be solved. Every interaction I’ve ever had with Ron left me inspired and motivated to work harder.

Please join me in voting for a bright future for Saco: vote for Ron Michaud for mayor on November 3.

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