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Poll results

Sponsored by: GoNetspeed, a fiber internet provider

Aye or nay?

It's Town Meeting time in Maine. For several years, some residents have opined that the institution is outdated, with low attendance at the annual meeting held in many municipalities. Detractors say budgets, salaries, new equipment and infrastructure needs should instead be decided at the polls or by a board of selectmen or council. Supporters say Town Meeting is one of the purest forms of democracy and should continue. 

Should Maine's Town Meeting form of government be preserved?
Yes, it's where everyone's voice can be heard (48%, 111 VOTES)
Yes, it's not just the decision-making, it's an honored tradition (25%, 58 VOTES)
No, too few people are participating (13%, 30 VOTES)
No, residents can weigh-in when issues are discussed by the board or council (14%, 33 VOTES)
Poll Description

Sponsored by: GoNetspeed, a fiber internet provider

Aye or nay?

It's Town Meeting time in Maine. For several years, some residents have opined that the institution is outdated, with low attendance at the annual meeting held in many municipalities. Detractors say budgets, salaries, new equipment and infrastructure needs should instead be decided at the polls or by a board of selectmen or council. Supporters say Town Meeting is one of the purest forms of democracy and should continue. 

  • 232 Votes
  • 3 Comments
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3 Comments

  • Tony Payne
    March 21, 2023

    It's up to the residents whether or not to continue the Town Meeting. From my perspective, this act of democracy needs to be fostered to keep folks engaged in the affairs (and budgets) of the towns.

  • March 21, 2023

    It is both a positive and a negative. Particularly in very small communities, it serves an important function. However, there is always the risk that verbal bullies will prevent people from voting how they truly think, which makes a strong case for voting at the polls. But, at town meeting, people can get answers to questions and hear the rationale behind various budget requests, so people tend to be more informed when voting at town meeting.

  • March 20, 2023

    Town meetings complement the town government structure. Coming from Maryland (5 times the population 1/4 the sq. miles) 20 years ago I was used to county government. Maine's town government system seems to work for Maine. Residents who want to pay attention have the opportunity both at Town Council meetings and the annual Town Meeting