To the editor:

 

Let us take a look at what positive and professional looks like.

Veterans angry with Twomey: after veterans found out the truth they came to my office to apologize. My opponent refuses to take this information off his website. I have marched in the veterans’ parades for 18 years, not just because I am now running for mayor. It is nice to finally have my opponent join us.

Every day while having to mayoral duties, I had to respond to lies his campaign waged against me. One council candidate running at-large went to the Courier office and told them I had sent an e-mail asking city employees to vote for me. He was asked to produce the document and he could not because it does not exist.

Letters to the editor: Joshua Bodwell accusing me of being on the take from Ocean Properties. Please check my campaign finance report; not one penny did I take from them. I use 5-cent brochures and my sneakers. I bought only 100 signs, that does not mean I do not have support out there. I did not want to spend any more than $400 on signs, they do not vote. Check out his signs at vacant lots.

The people of this city voted yes. He turned his back on Biddeford not once, but twice. In last week’s Sun Chronicle, he admits he will vote against this project again. He keeps telling us he does not trust Ocean Properties. He knows he has the “no” votes, now he is getting some of the “yes” votes because he was their teacher. When all is said and done, he can simply say he wanted $10 million and Ocean Properties will be gone. And that is what he wants, he wants this project gone.

Two more weeks seems like two more years. I am not ashamed at what I have accomplished. Please do not be fooled by this smoke and mirrors campaign. I have great support and I am trying to bring in jobs, jobs, jobs.

Mayor Joanne Twomey

Biddeford

 

 

 

To the editor:

 

How can any of us trust Alan Casavant? I was born and brought up in Biddeford. I also own and work at a business that has been in this community for more than 35 years. Alan Casavant has insulted my intelligence and I strongly feel he’s done the same to Biddeford residents.

 We didn’t know what we were voting for? It was the $107,000 that swayed our minds? We all need to look at what happened here. Our delegation voted against us (the majority), except Nancy Sullivan, who correctly stated “If you’re representing a community you must support their decision. They elected you to be their voice.” Do you really thing we’re that stupid?

Alan Casavant has had plenty of time to bring jobs to Biddeford. He is serving his third term as state representative and says that if elected mayor, he will use his connections in Augusta and bring jobs to Biddeford. Sounds like a political line to me. We needed these jobs three terms ago. Why are you  making us wait until you become mayor?

Alan has been a teacher in our community. He didn’t do it for free, it was his chosen profession and he got paid. Why do we all need to be taught by you to be better?

 

John Marcotte

Biddeford

 

Mayor deserves your vote

To the editor:

 

I have lived in Biddeford for more than 20 years and as a full blooded Passamadquoddy woman over the age of 70, I appreciate Biddeford: the river, ocean, open spaces, wooded areas and the friendly natives that welcomed all of us. Not every city has that.

Biddeford is a beautiful city – how can we make it better? We can’t. The only thing we can improve upon is development and our leaders on the reservation have been trying to do that for years and maybe we might have a chance this time around. Our leaders are respected because they have walked inn our shoes and face the same disappointments and joys as the rest of us. We have a shared vision for the whole tribe, not just part of it.

Mayor Joanne Twomey candidly told the people of Biddeford that our high school was falling apart and it would cost an increase in taxes to fix the problem. Like Passamaquoddy leaders, she reached out to all of us through a vote and we told her “yes.” Major decisions like that need to be taken to the people. We don’t have this racino yet but we did vote on it and we said yes again. Why didn’t Alan do this with Maine Energy years ago before he motioned it in. Alan Casavant has been in August for six years and what kind of jobs has he brought to Biddeford? I also don’t recall any past fundraiser helping any food pantry until he decided to run for mayor.

Lastly, a Cherokee proverb states “have a clear vision not clouded by fear.” To add my own: “ask your people first and than do what the majority want” Isn’t that how Alan Casavant got voted into office? Joanne get smy vote and she deserves yours.

 

Grace Joseph

Biddeford

 

 

Candidate is not positive, professional

To the editor:

 

Alan Casavant, we (Biddeford) told you loud and clear what we wanted and you still continued to vote against us in Augusta. You bragged at the debate on public access that you had a chance to change your mind on the vote for the racino and you said “no.”

Alan, post information on our Facebook page discrediting Joanne Twomey and her involvement with the veterans, without talking to the right people or getting the true facts first. You were quick to post this false information and upon finding out it was all a mistake, when asked if you would take it down, you said “no.” This is not being a strong leader. This being a stubborn one.

Alan needs to know that Biddeford residents know what they’re doing and we know what we voted for. If he is elected, what kind of message will we send the rest of the state and most importantly, our children. Are we really unable to think for ourselves?

Alan has a huge following the downtown people. Haven’t they got enough of our money? Now that they got this Reny’s building, will we be fixing that up too? We might if you don’t vote for the right candidates.

David Flood is a downtown business owner to encourage people to buy local. I went by his building last week and painting was being done by someone from Waterboro.

Alan Casavant’s campaign has been everything but positive and professional. Biddeford does not need a teacher, we need a leader who listens. That’s why I will vote for Joanne Twomey, a candidate who asks us first and follows through with it. Why hasn’t Alan Casavant done this?

 

Diana McKee-Marcotte

Biddeford

 

Candidate is hands-on

To the editor:

 

If you spend any time on Main Street, you have undoubtedly seen Chris Betjemann, current candidate for Biddeford councilor at-large.

You can catch him making the rounds, often acting as tour guide to small business owners interested in setting up shop, University of New England students looking for quality places to live and potential developers eyeing opportunity. He helps people see beyond the empty storefronts to the vision of a successful, vibrant community that draws from its myriad of resources – historical architecture, a scenic river, rail access, proximity to major urban areas, and, most importantly, its population of devoted, invested citizens who believe in the vast potential of this city.

 One thing you’ll notice about Mr. Betjemann is that his clothes often bear the evidence of his latest building project – from making repairs to the enormous Lincoln Mill heating system, to putting the finishing coat of paint on a newly renovated apartment. When not promoting the downtown to others, he takes a hands-on approach toward realizing the vision of a thriving Biddeford. When casting your votes, consider voting for a candidate who recognizes the resources this community has, and who applies himself daily toward the goal of bringing people together and building something great.

 

Kim Roseberry

 

Candidate is good for OOB

To the editor:

 

I have known Mike Coleman for a few years now and have always been impressed with his way of thinking. Not only is he a very intelligent person, but he completely understands current issues.

 I feel he would be a great addition to the Old Orchard Beach Town Council. His education in accounting and economics will be an asset in these difficult times. He is an excellent communicator and will work effectively with all members of the council. He listens to all sides of an argument before making an unbiased, informed decision.

Please join me in supporting Mike Coleman for the Old Orchard Beach Town Council.

 

Glynis Kerrick

Old Orchard Beach

 

 

Embrace investment

To the editor:

 

Vote yes on question two for jobs, our local economy and the future of Biddeford.

This is not just about slot machines. Biddeford Downs will have a destination hotel, conference center, restaurants and other entertainment. Just think about the people who will come to Biddeford from all around Maine and beyond to this brand new attraction right of I-95.

Getting more people to Biddeford means more people who will come downtown and will spend money at other local businesses. There’s a ripple effect that everyone will benefit from.

Also think about the revenue for our city. This will provide millions of dollars for schools, downtown improvements and other worthy projects.

This is an economic investment that we should embrace.

 

Anna Rivard

Biddeford

 

 

Candidate has proved himself

To the editor:

 

Bob Mills is definitely a community guy. He frequents my business and is in fact a customer of mine, and supports local business around the city.

Annually, my company puts on an event called the South Street Festival and Bob has volunteered to help with the event license as well as anything we may need from the city. But beyond that, he attends the festival with his children and is well received by all.

Bob is a guy who gets things done. He is a councilor with a big heart for the people of Biddeford and is involved with everything from food pantries to the racino for jobs. What ever is needed, there’s Bob.

With six ward councilors changing this election, we need the experience he will bring back to the City Council with two of his four years as council president, Downtown Development Commission, as well as Policy Committee chairman, Finance Committee and his knowledge of staff and city functions.

I support Bob Mills for reelection in Ward 5 because he has proven himself as a leader. Thank you big guy!

 

Roland Lawler

Biddeford

 

Candidate makes city a better place

To the editor:

Anyone who has spent time in downtown Biddeford has most likely seen Chris Betjemann, candidate for at-large seat on the Biddeford City Council, hard at work on one of the many renovation projects he has undertaken along Main Street. Chris arrived in Biddeford 10 years ago at a time when few other people were interested in improving downtown properties. Since then he has transformed several run-down buildings into some of the most attractive locations on Main Street.

It’s not only Chris’s proven ability to get things done that would make him an excellent councilor, in my opinion, but also his vision for a better city and commitment to achieving it. In addition, Chris has a dynamic enthusiasm for Biddeford that has helped encourage many other people, including myself, to join in the effort to renew buildings and build community. Chris has also been consistently generous in donating the use of his properties for public events that benefit the entire city. Biddeford is a better place for the work Chris has done and it will be better still if he is elected to City Council.

Seth Harkness

Portland

 

 

Mayor feels for those in need

To the editor:

 

Mayor Joanne Twomey has always impressed me for being a strong person who will tell you where she is at without question – I like that. She will ask my feelings about city issues and she is always genuinely concerned and responsive with any problem I bring forward as well. I have always liked her fight for jobs, environment and education, as well as public safety. They are basic needs and I feel that everything else rises from this.

Joanne’s warm nature with people who come to see her is very welcoming at her office, at home or even on the street. She has always felt for those in need and acted accordingly.

The racino project will bring some jobs and losing another 100 plus jobs from Lowe’s closing down is very disheartening. I trust Joanne as our mayor to bring the best revenue for the people of Biddeford with the companies involved. Trust and honesty work for me.

Joanne Twomey is the mayor for me and my future. She gets my vote.

 

Jonathan Knox

Biddeford

 

 

Candidate is ‘working man’

To the editor:

 

I like Bill Sexton for Ward 7.

Bill Sexton is a regular working man who seems very concerned for the future of Biddeford where he is raising his family. After speaking with Bill in length, he impressed me with views on creating a friendlier atmosphere for welcoming new business, making schools more accountable for education and a better maintenance plan so taxpayers will not find themselves with another $34 million bill.

As a tax payer himself, he wants to know where his money is going. He talked how the city needs to be more aggressive on the bidding process to cut the cost of spending and feels the city often pays to much for contracts from outside companies because we are a municipality. Bill is very strong on buy local and believes that more local contractors need to benefit from tax dollars to help raise the local economy – excellent and logical thoughts.

Bill is a local blue collar worker who is willing to help tackle the tough problems that face our lives here today with plain talk and practical solutions for the people of Biddeford.

I like Bill Sexton’s attitude and hope that everyone supports him – he has my vote.

 

Joshua Wheeler 

Biddeford

 

 

Ward needs candidate ‘now’

To the editor:

 

My husband and I have lived in Biddeford for nearly six years and I have finally met someone who shares my view about the possibilities for this city.

  Tammy Ackerman is leading by example with her local business and I have to trust that someone who has invested so much in the city would have a great deal to offer in an elected position. After meeting her outside of my house, running the Chalk on the Walk 5K with her and discussing issues at her local business, I am quite impressed by her knowledge about the things that need to be done in order to revitalize our city.

 I walked away from spending a couple of hours talking with a group of local business women and had desire to become involved. I have always thought there was potential for Biddeford, but now I know that someone running for City Council also sees the potential and has a plan.

I support her without question. We need to change the way we do things in Biddeford if we expect to have different results and I think Tammy Ackerman is just the candidate that Ward 5 needs now.

 

Mimi Bean

Biddeford

 

 

Let’s get facts

To the editor:

 

I would like to clarify a couple assertions about the Biddeford High School renovation project that are making the rounds during campaign season.

As a person who has been involved from start to finish in that process I can candidly say there was no deliberate attempt to exclude local contractors from that project. In fact, that question was asked well before the bids went out. There simply was no company in Biddeford that could handle a general contractor job for that project. Everyone had the opportunity to bid on that project. It was well advertised and all qualified bids were welcome.

The second point is that the Biddeford School Board and superintendent approached the state several times since the middle school project looking for help in renovating the high school. We were advised that we would be many years away from full funding of the project. The project did not qualify straight up for funding for energy improvements let alone that those funds were closed at the time.

I might add that the school board hired a local firm, Oak Point Associates, to do risk assessment of all school buildings.

There is nothing wrong with discussing issues during a campaign. However, let's do it factually.

 

Howard Hanson

Biddeford

 

Ackerman would bring change

To the editor:

 

Biddeford is on the verge of new and exciting times.

We have more and more people engaged and interested in making our community a vibrant and thriving place to live, work and play. We have great resources, including a beautiful location on the Saco River and the Atlantic Ocean, a fantastic downtown with mills and storefronts just waiting to be filled. We also have people – people who are passionate about our city and dedicate their time, energy and compassion to Biddeford. 

One of those people is Tammy Ackerman.  She was the first person I met when I moved to Biddeford and I am continually inspired and impressed with the ideas, energy and commitment she has for our city. Her passion and vision are contagious. 

Tammy is a problem solver and someone who will do her research and ask questions to get to the bottom of an issue and work for a solution. She does this in a positive and proactive manner and I know she would be a great addition to our City Council. If you want to see Biddeford move forward and become a thriving city once again I encourage you to vote for Tammy Ackerman for Ward 5 City Council.

 

Megan Rochelo

Biddeford

 

Bring positive attitude to city

To the editor:

 

Alan Casavant has my support for mayor of Biddeford.  Alan will bring leadership, respect, integrity and vision to city hall. He is exactly what this city needs.

 Alan taught at Biddeford High School for 35 years and has won the lifelong respect of his former students. One has only to drop in on his Facebook page and see all the positive comments of support for him to know this is true. 

Alan has a vision and a plan to go nationwide to attract businesses and jobs to Biddeford. It has been a long time since the city has had an aggressive business plan in place. Even if the racino does pass we need to attract a variety of businesses to provide for the diversity of our work force and to lessen the impact that any one employer could have on our local economy.

 I am not a supporter of racinos but if this one is passed by voters I want Alan Casavant as our mayor to negotiate the best deal for the citizens of Biddeford and for the owners of the horses that will race there. If elected, he has promised to negotiate for the “best darn racino in the state of Maine.”

Most important of all is that I have hope Alan has what it takes to bring pride back to our community. Biddeford must become a community of positive attitudes so we can brag about living here, not be ashamed. Join me Nov. 8 and elect Alan Casavant the next mayor of Biddeford.

 

Peggy Bean

Biddeford

 

 

Down right unprofessional

To the editor:

 

I respect people who have their own opinions, but it should be somewhat genuine and certainly factual. Last week’s edition of the Courier’s letters to the editor had lots of opinions, but was lacking some facts.

 First, It is outrageous that Mayor Joanne Twomey would take money from Ocean Properties. Anyone who knows her also knows she has too much integrity to ever put herself in that position. What are you implying? You’re fishing Joshua; you can’t prove it happened, because it didn’t. Making false accusations to damage another person’s good name, however manipulated, is down right unprofessional.

 Let’s talk about Randy Seaver – the “hired gun” for Casavant. Can you say “Oxford Casino?” Who does not want Biddeford racino to succeed. So what? Big deal. I say, “Good for Randy, at least he has a Job.”

 Several other citizens gave their opinions about Alan Casavant being the right person to negotiate the racino deal. I respect their opinions, thank you. But here is my opinion, and I hope it’s respected. Alan Casavant voted no three times in Augusta and then last week he publicly announced that he was “voting no” on the racino. Let’s do the math. Three “nos” plus one no equals NO-NO-NO-NO – and that’s my vote for Casavant.

 He cannot be trusted to deliver these jobs to the people of Biddeford, period.

 

David Bourque

Biddeford

 

Wipe slate clean

To the editor:

 

I’m taking the time to write this letter in hopes I may sway even one more voter to cast a vote in the upcoming mayoral election. Much of the election hype in Biddeford seems to be focused on question two. Some residents may not even realize there is an important mayoral race to consider.

When voters visit the polls Nov. 8 I hope they vote for change and choose Alan Casavant as our new mayor. Alan will breathe new life to our city and work to revitalize Biddeford in a way others have failed to do. I’ve known Alan for more than 30 years. First as a student, then as a peer serving with him on the Biddeford City Council, and finally as a friend. Through all those years I’ve seen how deep his love for Biddeford truly runs.

Alan’s experience as a city councilor and Statehouse representative makes him qualified for the job. He also has the heart and the drive to ensure his constituents’ needs are being considered and represented. Alan’s desire to run for mayor is not based on some urge to rise up against some injustice or to serve some current political fad. No, Alan has shown his desire to make Biddeford a better place for us all as evidenced by his long teaching career as well as his long public service career.

There is certainly a lot on the line for Biddeford this November, but without a doubt, I believe a vote for Alan is the best decision for our city. If people take the time to learn more about this candidate, I’m confident others will agree with me. Please take the time to visit your local polling place and vote for Alan on Nov. 8 or even earlier if you choose to vote by absentee ballot.

 

Carl R Poirier

Biddeford

 

Don’t you just love “free” speech?

To the editor: 

 

Once again our city and state are being littered by signs urging us to support gambling expansion in a big way. Turn on the evening news and you are bombarded by the same messages and promises over and over and over. Don’t you just love “free” speech? As Maine prepares to vote on casinos/racinos for the sixth time in 12 years, the gambling promoters keep pounding at Maine’s door and spending piles of money to prevail.

The sales pitch or mantra over the last couple of years has been jobs, jobs, jobs, with some pocket change spread around for good measure. The jobs, jobs, jobs card is the only one gambling promoters dare show or play. The rest of their hand is the real motivation behind the enormous dollars they have spent. That hidden hand or agenda is all about the huge gambling profits to be made. Gambling venues are not economic engines; they are money sucking machines that deprive legitimate businesses of revenue. The irony of the jobs, jobs, jobs message is that the “success” of any gambling establishment is based on your lost wagers and wages. Only powerful interests profit greatly from gambling, taking their profits any way they can.

Expanding gambling in Maine and Biddeford makes about as much sense as, let’s say, building two giant home improvement stores side by side or two mega pharmacies across the street from each other and within a mile of three other nice pharmacies, or having a half dozen auto parts stores within a city, or a trash incinerator in mid-town. But what town would ever be foolish enough or short sighted enough to plan like that?

Biddeford can and should aspire to better than what is being sold us now. Vote no on two and three.

 

David Ganter

Biddeford

 

Racino would support industry

To the editor:

 

I’m writing to ask citizens to please vote yes on question two.

Question two supports Maine’s harness racing industry, family farms and lots of other people who both love working with horses and provide services for the harness racing community. 

In my first year of college I got a job with Wally Watson in Cumberland grooming horses and getting them ready to race. Now my boyfriend and I have six horses of our own that we train. We’re lucky to be part of a great community of people. Everyone we know is supporting question two because we believe it will help our industry. You can help by voting yes on two.

 

Elizabeth Richardson

Saco

Reader ‘appalled’ by comments

To the editor:

I was appalled by the comments of Roxanne Quimby calling Maine a welfare state, also implying that people were fat, old, drug addicts. 

You may ask why should that interest me here in Biddeford? Well, Roxanne Quimby is a major donor to Engine and Tammy Ackerman is running for the Ward 5 council seat. I have seen this snob attitude before, with the Heart of Biddeford gang trying to shut down food giveaways. Biddeford doesn’t need these types of people. We need caring, loving people who understand all walks of life. 

When I hear stuff like this it makes me sick. That’s why I’m voting for a person who treats everybody with respect and understands all people of Biddeford. I hope you all join me in voting Bobby Mills, Ward 5.

Karl Reed

Biddeford

 

Election is critical

To the editor:

This year’s local elections are critical to the future of Biddeford. That is why I will be voting for Tammy Ackerman for council Ward 5.

Tammy's commitment to the city speaks for itself but I believe what sets her apart from any other candidate is her incredible vision for the future of Biddeford. I believe the economic progress that Biddeford will need to reach its potential will continue with Tammy's inspiring presence and her commitment to the people of this town.  

Since I have known Tammy she has proven to me that she possesses all the characteristics necessary to be a valuable member of the City Council. She is hard working, caring and professional. Tammy Ackerman would be a great representative for the people of Ward 5.

Lauren Cullity-Sanford

Biddeford

 

 

To the editor:

Biddeford Mayor Joanne Twomey has spent the past year shrieking “Jobs! Jobs! Jobs!”

It’s odd then that Twomey did not support keeping an important job in city hall’s Department of Health and Welfare office that would have helped, according to the city’s website, those in need of “Temporary Aid to Needy Families, Food Stamps, MaineCare (health insurance) and (EAP) Emergency Assistance Program.”

 Why would Twomey claim to want to help those in need and then hurt the city’s ability to efficiently help?

 More odd perhaps is Twomey’s insistence that a racino will bring 500 jobs with an average salary of $35,000 to the people of Biddeford. What’s wrong with that statement? Several things.

 First, when I explained to a compliance officer at the Maine Human Rights Commission that Twomey and Ocean Properties insisted they would give Biddeford residents priority for 500 jobs, the commission was surprised. The officer said that not allowing people from surrounding towns the same priority for those jobs would have a “discriminatory effect.” The officer went on to say they’d warn the city and Ocean Properties to “be cautious of unintended consequences” of such proposals.

 Second, the average salary at a company does not mean anything. It’s misleading math. If four employees at a business each make $20,000 per year, and a fifth employee makes $100,000 per year, the average salary at that business is $36,000.

 Let’s look to the Hollywood Slots website for a reality check: a full time room attendant at that racino earns $9 an hour, or $18,720 per year. This wage is well below the poverty level in York County. This means every room attendant at Twomey’s Biddeford Downs could have a full time job and still qualify for aid from the under-staffed Department of Health and Welfare office at city hall.

 By Twomey’s own admittance, she has spent the past year doing zero negotiating with Ocean Properties. Instead, she’s putting all her efforts into perpetuating its mis-truths.

 

Joshua Bodwell

Biddeford

 

 

 

Reader urges resident to vote for Twomey

To the editor:

 

After listening to the arguments about our mayor and the racino issue I would like to say something. With the economy the way it is, who wouldn't want the racetrack? Unless someone has another quick fix.

I wonder if a large majority of people against the racetrack are those who are financially secure, have a fixed income or better. Some probably have homes that are paid for and do not wonder where their next meal will come from or worry if they’re able to pay rent or mortgage.

There's good and bad with everything. As for our current mayor, Joanne Twomey, here is a public servant who truly cares for the people of Biddeford. She has not wavered in her beliefs and commitment. She says something and follows it through to the best of her ability. She is outspoken but doesn't say one thing then does another. Who wouldn't want someone that fights as hard as she does to represent you? Yes everyone wants peace and tranquility but that does not pay the bills and put food on the table. Think about it. Wake up people. Fight for the person who is fighting for you. 

 

Alberta Czerwinski  

Biddeford

 

Racino would be good for entire horse industry

To the editor:

 

Question two is good for Maine’s horse industry in general, not just those who own and race standardbreds.

I shoe horses for a living. I apprenticed for several farriers and I’ve been on my own for about 10 years. My work is focused mainly on pleasure horses, show horses and therapeutic shoeing.

Growing up in Sanford, I was always around horses. I’ve always gotten along well with them and I knew from an early age that it would be great if I could find a job working with horses.

Even though I don’t work with racehorses, I can see that a racino in Biddeford would be good for all of us. If Biddeford Downs creates bigger purses, that means more owners and more horses would get involved. In turn, that’s more work for hay farmers, grain suppliers, vets, equine dentists, farriers, trainers and others. Many people I know in the industry feel the same way. We hope you will join us in supporting question two on the Nov. 8 ballot.

 

Matthew Guillemette

Sanford

 

 

Resident is ready for change

To the editor:

 

This November I will be voting for Alan Cassavant for mayor of Biddeford, for several reasons.

He shares my vision for a vibrant Biddeford and has innovative ideas for how to make it happen, which include the continued redevelopment of our beautiful old mills, outfitting city hall with up-to-date social media marketing tools to attract new business and making sure that we, the voters, have all the facts (both pros and cons) before signing on the dotted line for a racino. 

When he says he wants to put politics aside and bring people together to get the job done, I believe him. What is it going to take for that to happen, however, is first we must vote for him on Nov. 8,and second, we must all be ready, willing and able to work with him by sharing his commitment to making our city a better place for all of us to live, work and play in. We can do that by voicing our opinions at City Council meetings, volunteering on local committees and commissions, attending downtown community functions and events and doing the brunt of our business in Biddeford.

I hope you'll make the right decision on Nov. 8. Please vote for Alan Cassavant. 

 

Holly Culloton

Biddeford, Ward 3

 

Make racino a reality

To the editor:

 

Here’s why I’m voting yes on question 2.

I like the way this would fit in our city with the harness racing track and the whole concept with the jobs for horsemen and benefits to farmers. This will bring horse breeders from areas around the U.S. and Canada to compete at the new track right here in Biddeford. There will be a first-class hotel with dining, live entertainment and a slots parlor. I will admit, I am not much of a gambler and I may only come to Biddeford Downs for dinner and a show, but I like the option. The 500 full-time jobs with benefits are so badly needed after losing all the mill jobs here. The pride of a blue collar city is jobs and we need to get our people back to work.

The two companies building this complex are reputable, Maine-rooted companies and one is Scarborough Downs, which has been our neighbor for 60 years.

Biddeford has been building the infrastructure to receive this type of complex with a major medical center, three industrial parks, Biddeford Crossing and the Maine Turnpike spur. We voted by a wide margin in support of the racino and we haven’t changed our minds.

This is a private investment of $120 million and they are not asking for a tax break. The $5 million per year in revenue will help move our community forward. This can be a reality in our city – Why not now?

 

David Bourque

Biddeford

 

High five on question five

 

To the editor:

 

I am asking and encouraging all residents of Old Orchard Beach to vote in favor of referendum question five on the municipal ballot.  

The question asks for approval of the bond for the expansion of Libby Library on Staples Street in Old Orchard Beach. The ballot is a very busy piece of paper. There are a total of five questions and lots of explanations.

 Referendum question five is on the last page of the two-sided municipal ballot. I want to make sure everybody is aware of the placement of this question on the ballot so it does not get lost in the shuffle.

 The impact on homeowners when this is passed would increase taxes by $7 per $100,000 on the value of homes and business. 

High five on five.

 

Alice T. Langdon

Old Orchard Beach

 

Candidate has creativity

 

To the editor:

 

What Biddeford needs most is some inspiration and passion. A cloud of

Apathy has hovered over downtown for most of my life. It's time for some

Big changes.

The businesses of yesteryear are not coming back and we need a new direction. Biddeford has an absolutely incredible set of resources. The ocean of southern Maine, a train with quick service to Portland and Boston, convenient highway access, a gorgeous historic Main Street that has not been ravaged by thoughtless sprawl and abundant mill space that is ready for creative reuse.

Most communities would love to have this much potential. But it's not about the assets we have; it's about what we do with them. We need leadership that recognizes and uses these assets to lift Biddeford

up.

Tammy Ackerman has a progressive outlook and enough optimism and enthusiasm to inspire just about anyone. She believes that commerce   follows culture and the arts can benefit Main Street positively. For these

reasons I will vote for Tammy Ackerman for Biddeford City Council Ward 5.

I urge you to visualize a bustling, creative Main Street and to vote for

Tammy Ackerman for Ward 5.

 

Dan Adams

Biddeford

 

Candidate is financial watchdog

 

To the editor:

 

I believe the people of Ward 3 would be well served by electing Roland Pelletier as their councilor. Roland has experience in dealing with issues that concern the city and would be a good watchdog when it comes to city finances.  I endorse him wholeheartedly.

 

Ray Tardif

 

Biddeford

 

 

Candidate is ‘forward thinker’

To the editor:

 

As a small business owner based out of the mill in Biddeford, I see the real need for forward-thinking people to be elected to the City Council. This being said, I feel Tammy Ackerman would be perfect to represent Ward 5.  

Her fresh ideas and current understanding of the city of Biddeford would be instrumental in the economic development the city so desperately needs.  Not only is she a forward thinker but she is very active in our city and has formed real connections with the people here. These connections, along with her ideas for the betterment of Biddeford, is what the city has longed for over the past several decades.  

Tammy Ackerman would bring the economic development and growth that Biddeford desperately needs.

 

Mike St.Pierre

Biddeford

 

Former teacher would succeed as mayor

To the editor:

 

Being mayor of any city is a difficult job. Juggling multiple priorities, working with different personalities and making ends meet during a time of economic crisis are not responsibilities that come lightly. But in order to succeed at the job, a mayor must have good judgment and common sense to ensure he/she is meeting the needs of the residents who elected that individual to office.

 For quite some time, I have felt disconnected with current city leadership. I don’t believe Biddeford is any better now than it was four years ago. When you drive down Main Street in Saco and cross the bridge in to Biddeford, you can’t help but feel you are entering an area trapped in the shadow of our neighboring town.

 Biddeford can be better and can be lead better, and the person most qualified for the job is Alan Casavant. Many know Alan – he was a popular high school teacher for many years and currently represents District 137 in the Maine Legislature. He has the patience and people skills needed to succeed as mayor, along with a vision for the city that will catapult it over Saco’s shadows.

 I am submitting this letter in recognition of Alan Casavant and his run for mayor of Biddeford. I am a former student of his with first hand knowledge of his power to motivate and encourage others to do the right thing. I believe he does have the best intentions for Biddeford and he knows what needs to change for positive development of Biddeford. If elected, I know he will take his responsibilities seriously and serve with great dignity. That’s what I want in a leader and that’s why I’ll be voting for Alan on Nov. 8.

 

Melanie J. Mulkern

Biddeford

 

To the editor:

 

Ackerman is ‘magnet’ for solutions

 

In the four years I have had the privilege to know Tammy Ackerman she has proven again and again that she has a vested interest in and passion for developing a vibrant down town.  

Tammy is recognized for big bright orange art gallery, Franklin Street Art Space, and her commitment to overseeing the Biddeford Artwalk, which continues to draw growing crowds of patrons who visit not only the art venues, but the shops and various restaurants in Biddeford. She is also credited with her latest venture with ENGINE, an arts nonprofit, which was gifted the Reny building on Main Street.  

I have no doubt that she will bring new voice to a town prime for renewal and revitalization. Her approach is very open and encouraging, which will create a welcome climate for new businesses. The infrastructure is all in place, her contacts are far reaching and she is a magnet for creative, big picture, solutions to the challenge of growing a strong downtown community.

 

Laura L. Dunn

Biddeford