If Palin can do it, so can we

To editor: I know that this is going to be a tough budget year for New Hampshire towns. But I found a great idea. I was reading about McCain's vice presidential choice and I think we are missing a great opportunity for our towns. She hired a lobbyist for her town of 7,000 when she was mayor (well, in Alaska, it was called a city, there aren't very many people or towns in Alaska), and got lots of money from the federal government.

So I propose that each of our towns include in their budgets for next year money to hire lobbyists. That way we can be sure we will have enough money to fix our roads and bridges, take care of the snow and ice, build nice new safety buildings for fire and police departments, and maybe even sports complexes! All without raising property taxes.

If Sarah Palin can do it, and keep her reputation as a reformer, we can do it too. Alaska gets $1.87 per person for every dollar they send to Washington, but we only get about 75 cents here in New Hampshire. We can do better!

Ben Edwards
Northwood

YOU read this week by host Arnie Arnesen