Dear Editor:

A rare opportunity has presented itself to the residents of Boothbay. On November 5, a vote will be presented to create a TIF (tax increment financing) district (area) around the newly acquired Boothbay Harbor Country Club and also to include up Route 27 to the property designated as the industrial park.

This TIF is not being implemented to benefit the developer(s), but yes, it sometimes can be used to assist or encourage development with some tax credits. This TIF’s initial goal is to capture the imminent increase in value and subsequent increased tax revenue that is going to take place with the significant improvements happening at the club.

This TIF will shelter this tax revenue from the county and state for up to 30 years, allowing it to be used for potentially numerous economic development improvements. Ultimately to benefit us, and only us, the town. This initiative has been crafted by our town management and selectmen, what I consider to be an educated refreshing municipal team that is thinking ahead and being proactive with what is going to happen anyway.

I have watched several businesses grow into what they are today. Some with the help of the same creative districting. Washburn & Doughty, and Hodgdon Yachts to name a couple successes, which are both in their own TIF districts. Two great examples of businesses we all want to support and see grow in our community.

I have studied this TIF proposal carefully and I believe I understand just what is being proposed on the November 5 ballot, and I support it. If you have questions about it, maybe fearful of what it may do to our town, or just want to convince me otherwise, I am open to that debate and would love others input.

I would also like to try to convince you that our Boothbay town office is also a safe place to go and ask questions, and get straight answers. It is up to us to give them input and also to use their knowledge to get better informed on ways this can be accomplished.

Win Mitchell
Boothbay