No say unless you are a resident?

To the editor:
    In regard to Orient taxation and policy, I am just voicing my opinion.
    Once again it’s the tax bill debate in the town of Orient. It seems like every year residents and non-residents are in for a big shock when the tax bills come out. In one year alone, I have had an increase in property valuation of $19,800 and a mill rate increase of 4.700. I also have a tax increase of $812.04.
    Revaluation was done just four years ago (2007) and another done in 2011. Our property has had an increase in the amount of $72,370 since 2003 — quite a jump in eight years for a seasonal residence (I might also add that general maintenance is all that has been done).
    These are economically hard times with home foreclosures and high unemployment headlining the news morning and night. Give us a break Orient. The need for a long-term budget — not just one for the year — needs to exist. We or you need to tighten your belts and hope for a better economy.
    It seems strange that though property tax increases, that as a non-resident, I cannot vote on any of these matters. I thought this is why our country had its start — taxation without representation. I wonder where such a stupid, stupid law came from that says “no say unless you are a resident.”
Ronald Peabody
Hodgdon