The citizens of Patten have an opportunity to try to reverse the continuing economic decline of our area. For far too long now, we have stood by and watched as businesses folded up, taking jobs and a stable tax base with them. Our youth, the future of the area, have left in droves. Since 1980, our population has decreased by 20 percent while we have seen other areas of the state flourish with job creation and economic growth enhanced by the marketing efforts of other local development associations.

It is important for the towns of the northern Katahdin area to support the efforts of the Upper Valley Economic Council, whose main priority is the marketing and development of our area. If something is to be done about our current economic decline, we the local people will have to do it. Our young people deserve the chance to live, work and play in what otherwise would be considered paradise by most.

The town of Patten’s support is essential if UVEC’s efforts are to continue. If you feel that we can do something for ourselves, please attend the special town meeting tonight at 7 p.m.

Steve Crouse

Patten