Wednesday, August 25, 2005
Response by David Hill to the Editorial
Secession by Chebeague a matter to be taken seriously
The editorial concerning Chebeague Island secession states
that a considerable amount of tax revenue is at stake for Cumberland
and MSAD #51.
This statement is very premature, as the numbers have yet to
be developed. It could be that any revenue lost to the town
and/or district will be offset by increased state school funding
due to lesser property valuation, fees for school and municipal
services and by Chebeague's payment of its share of debt service.
Even if the mainland were at economic risk, why is it OK for
Chebeague to be forced to continue a course into oblivion for
the sake of saving the mainland from a financial "hit"?
The paper suggests that Chebeague be allowed to secede, but should
stay in MSAD #51. There is absolutely no assurance that
MSAD #51 can guarantee the survival of the Island School - only
local, i.e. island control, can do that.
A more effective school alliance is suggested. Mainland
and Chebeague parents have been trying that for fifty years with
little success. Again, only local control and cooperation
with other islands can provide the collaboration of school and
community that Chebeague's children deserve.
The editorial concludes by saying that Cumberland should "make
a serious effort to address the concerns of the islanders."
Indeed, they should. By assisting Chebeague to secure its
independence, the town can help to preserve an island community
that is otherwise destined for extinction. And they can
do so without taking the financial hit that some fear.