Niel Young

To the editor,

Is this an awakening or what?

Two other folks have recognized Councilor Judkins’ 1.5 percent spending cap on paper goods, paper clips, pencils, toilet tissue, etc. is just what it is; an insult to the taxpayers of Laconia.

Doug Lambert in his weekly column and Ken Deshaies both observe the inconsistency of statements by Councilor Judkins.

Gentlemen, this is nothing new for that councilor. A couple of years ago he told my radio audience on Saturday morning that he would vote against a contract at the Monday night council meeting. HE led the charge to accept the contract!!

In his first campaign for council he told many of us “over my dead body” when discussing taxpayers funding of the Lakes Business Park.

Doug and Ken, allow me to give you more analysis; the councilor plays both sides. He can now say he pushed a tax cap and tell public employees that he protected their wages, insurance, etc. and be the hero to both sides! And, unfortunately, there are folks who will believe it.

You note that last year Judkins did the same thing, only the cap of 1.5 percent was for over all spending, and what did that accomplish? Well, look at your tax bill.

Remember when Rick voted against the teachers’ contract, and then voted for it a few days later?

Ken mentioned that Ward 5 was not well represented; I agree; but let’s look at Ward 4, Ken’s ward. Councilor Cowan voted with Judkins, and actually wanted to add to the 1.5 percent exemptions list.

Councilors Luther, Bolduc, and Cowan could have moved reconsideration and said 2.5 percent overall spending which is what I think the Mayor wanted to do. But no, it is another two years of the same.

Should we forgive them, for they know not what they do?

The Daily Sun ran an ad asking for some taxpayer horror stories. I know there are many because they have been reported to me. Come forward, they have already done the damage.

Betty bought me two Christmas presents last weekend – a nice shovel from Trustworthy Hardware, and Sorel boots at Melnick’s (So much for “Do Not Open ‘Til Christmas). Shop locally when you can!

Niel Young

Laconia