I congratulate the members of the Paperworkers Union Local 396 from Lincoln Pulp and Paper here in Lincoln for voting unanimously to support the 2C position on the fall forestry referendum. Like the Linclon Town Council (who also unanimously voted to support the 2C position), they have investigated the subject thoroughly and were well-informed on the issue.

I have said all along that citizens who make a thorough investigation of both proposals A and B would come to the conclusion that they are both detrimental to our local economy. I want to commend the working men and women in the Greater Lincoln area for their relentless pursuit of the truth, and of the dangers of the Green Party’s referendum and the governors compact. I stand with you and will tell you now that as your state represenative I will never support any proposal that will take away your property rights. Rep. Priscilla “Pat” Lane R-Enfield, District 138

Numerous letters appearing in Maine papers of late seem to associate private property rights with the idea of voting for the 2C measure concerning this November’s forestry proposals. If the individuals writing such letters think that “right of entry” of officials onto private lands is something new, it should be pointed out that the right to do so has existed for nearly a 100 years — ever since the Maine Forest Service was created. Forest Service officials and Maine Warden Service representatives have been allowed to enter private properties to protect against timber trespass and theft, forrest fires, insect infestations, disease and illegal hunting and fishing for all of that time.

The Compact for Maine’s Forests, choice 2B on the ballot, in no way changes the existing laws that are already in place. In fact, it actually strengthens the rights of landowners, especially small landowners, by allowing them access to expanded education programs. It increases their participation in local harvesting regulation and offers better protection against timber thievery and the like to absentee owners. Above all, it allows exemptions in order to promote sustainable and profitable management to them. These exemptions are not available to the states large landowners.

The Green Party’s referendum, Question 2A, has already caused losses to Maine’s economy. The 2C choice can only prolong debate over the forest question. The only real solution that will benefit all concerned is a resounding yes vote for 2B, the Compact for Maine’s Forest. Earle Kasregis Pulp and Paperworkers’ Resource Council Roxbury