York Town News
Weaver discusses state bond package
YORK - The $295-million bond package passed by the Legislature on April 4 represents a victory for responsible borrowing and good government, according to State Rep. Windol Weaver, R-York.Weaver has also expressed satisfaction that more than half of the package will go for what he described as critical infrastructure needs such as water projects, port improvements, rail enhancements, aviation upgrades and roads.
"I think the Legislature did a great job working together in crafting a bond package that taxpayers can afford, should Maine voters approve the questions at the ballot box," he said. "The overwhelming support for this package was evident with almost every member of the House voting in favor of it."
A key component, he said, is the allocation for improving roads and bridges.
"We also made a commitment to invest in Maine's future in the areas of higher education, conservation, research and development, state parks and technology initiatives," he said.
The bond issue will go to voters in three stages beginning this June and continuing in November and then in June of 2008.
This June's bond ballot, for $131 million, contains money for highways and bridges, wastewater construction projects and drinking water grants.
November's bond ballot seeks approval for $134 million, including $40 million for higher education building renovations, $50 million for the Maine Technology Institute and $17 million for Land for Maine's Future.
A $29 million bond for highways, bridges and other key infrastructure elements will go to voters in June of 2008.
Weaver acknowledged that comprises were made by everyone in order to put together the enacted bond package.
"Although, ideally, I would have liked to have seen more money put toward transportation, we will still be able to generate at least $200 million in federal matching funds from the highway bonds," he said. "I also made sure that York County Community College was included so that the school will be able to address some safety concerns on campus while being able to equip classrooms with needed technology to provide digital access to off-campus locations."
