The schools in Monmouth are the heart of the community. Good schools always equate to a healthy tax base, good property values and sustainability. The debate on our school budget has eroded into misstatements and accusations by a small group of anti-tax citizens. The advocates of good schools have been cast aside as elitists unconcerned about the welfare of the elderly and the average citizen concerned about heat and food this winter.

It's time to correct some of these misstatements.

Fact: Monmouth is the second-fastest growing community in Kennebec County; families are moving here for our excellent schools.

Fact: The budget increase this year is actually a budget cut with rising costs and inflation at 3.6 percent in the state of Maine.

Fact: The vast majority of the total town budget increase is from the municipal side, not the schools. Losing the town meeting has forced people to make decisions in Monmouth without the facts.

This debate is not about the schools. It's about retribution. It's about taking out anger about a failed state and federal taxation system that does not help communities. It's about finding a podium and microphone that gives people with real concerns a place to cut something, anything.

It should not be my kids who take a hit. They don't deserve it.

Jeff Musich

Monmouth