Dear Editor:

We are lucky to live in Maine and luckier still to live in Boothbay. But increasing housing costs, including rising rents, property taxes, home repairs and modifications, and high heating costs because our homes aren’t weatherized properly, are leaving too many Mainers without an affordable option.

We all want to age in place, in our homes, in our communities. There comes a time when a smaller, more energy-efficient home is a better option than a larger, older house. Question 2 on the statewide ballot will approve $15 million to build new homes for older Mainers and weatherize existing homes across the state.

This is a big opportunity. There are so many benefits to Question 2. Four of the projects would be built in rural counties, where many Mainers are unable to sell their house without a loss. Preference will be given to projects that are close to or include essential goods and services such as telehealth. Jobs will be created to the tune of 150-200 jobs per development. Building materials are expected to generate over $15 million in local revenue.

If we don’t invest in a real solution, over 15,000 older Mainers will be on housing waiting lists by the year 2022. I urge my neighbors and all Maine voters to vote yes on the senior housing bond issue, Question 2, on the statewide ballot.

Shawn Lewin

Boothbay Harbor