'Yes' on Three

On Nov. 2, Maine people will have the chance to vote in support of the Land for Maine’s Future (LMF) program. I encourage you to vote “yes” on Question 3.

LMF has provided money to protect rivers, lakes, wildlife habitat, trails, working forests, working waterfronts, farms, and other important areas. In the Bethel area, this has included the purchase from willing sellers of Frenchman’s Hole, Rumford Whitecap Mountain Preserve and Moran’s Landing boat launch on the Androscoggin River. These areas are open to the public for hunting, fishing and other recreational activities.

These areas are important for the economic future of the state. Tourism is a significant component of the Bethel area economy. Our LMF sites attract tourists to come to the Bethel area to spend their dollars. People have moved here to start businesses and retire, primarily because of the quality of life which includes protected natural areas, recreational trails and improved access to the Androscoggin River. These people buy property, build homes employing a variety of construction contractors, and often further contribute to the local community by their involvement in the many non-profit and volunteer organizations in the Bethel area.

Question 3 on Nov. 2 will authorize $9.75 million dollars to protect these types of lands. Without this bond, the state will have no funds to protect these areas that are important for our heritage and our economy.

Join me in voting yes – for our economy, for our enjoyment, and for our children’s heritage.

Marcel Polak

Woodstock