On Nov. 8, voters will be asked to authorize a number of bond issues that will directly affect the city of Bangor and our region.

Question 2 will authorize $33.1 million in bonds to be matched by $158 million in federal funds for transportation projects. This bond issue will provide funding for a variety of projects and programs in our area that are essential to maintaining and improving our transportation infrastructure, including our state highways, Bangor International Airport and our public transit system – the BAT Community Connector. Without these funds, it will be impossible to maintain our current regional transportation infrastructure.

Question 3 will provide $8.9 million, matched by $33 million in federal funds, for a variety of environmental projects, including the state revolving loan fund for wastewater system improvements. Bangor has and will continue to use this revolving loan fund, which offers very low-interest rates for sewer-related capital projects. This fund benefits our ratepayers by helping us keeping down increases in our sewer rates.

Question 4 supports economic growth and jobs through funding medical research and development. It includes funding for the renovation of Camden Hall at University College in Bangor for a proposed graduate school for biomedical science. This $20 million issue is projected to attract $44 million in federal and private matching funds, a significant portion of which will be spent in our region. The investment in University College will also support this local institution and its future.

Question 6 will provide bond funds for building renovations throughout the University of Maine and the Maine Community College Systems, including projects at the University of Maine and Eastern Maine Community College. These institutions are essential to producing the trained and qualified workers we need to compete in today’s economy. Improving their infrastructures will help them attract students and produce qualified workers.

Question 5 will fund the Land for Maine’s Future program. This program has provided funding toward land conservation and preservation in the Penjajawoc Marsh watershed.

Finally, Question 1 on the ballot is the proposed people’s veto of the new state law that would protect individuals from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. The Bangor City Council has long supported efforts to reduce intolerance within our community, including adopting our own local ordinance banning discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. The new state law mirrors what is already in place in Bangor.

As you prepare to vote on Nov. 8, I hope you will consider the local benefits of the various bond issues and the city’s existing ordinance and policy on banning discrimination.

Frank J. Farrington is the mayor of Bangor.