The mission of this website started in 2008 was to provide an open forum where Lebanon Maine Residents may reach out, communicate, share ideas, discuss solutions and organize for the purpose of improving the government of the Town of Lebanon and our Community in general. It was also to keep residents informed and updated on meetings, news and town events. Ultimately, I wanted to see people work together!
Back in 2008 when our taxes increased 35% without warning I was more than a little shocked. I tried to learn why and didn’t like what I was seeing or hearing. I started this website as a means to turn frustration into action. I believe we got to where we are by leaving our town obligation to others to take care of and there is no blame to be placed here except on ourselves the people of the community. I firmly believe through regular involvement and participation in government by our residents we will gain transparency in budgets, reduced spending, improve management and endure fewer surprises. This website is about getting and keeping people involved, informed, educated and attentive. It has helped and has improved things but we still have a long way to go.
We have a wonderful town with great people. Lebanon is under increased pressure for development as well as fiscal strains with increased burden from the State. We as a community need to be better informed and take solid measures NOW to ensure we can lay a foundation for our towns successful path in the future. The rate of growth and demands can easily overwhelm our ability to deal with them effectively.
Things like a Town Charter – Town Manager – and Comprehensive Plan all formalize our community vision and ensure from a government and management perspective we are working from a plan and getting the most in services for our money.
I had encouraged posting of valued opinions or observations on this website, however this didn’t work so well. It was being abused by few to push narrow agendas. So it was discontinued since it was not constructive. If you have an essay or editorial or letter you would like published simply email it to me. You can also participate in discussions on the OurVoice Facebook page, by logging onto Facebook and Searching OurVoice, then clicking “Like”
The town over the last year or so has started a Facebook page and is posting more notices, bid requests and events but not all. I view this website as resource to keep abreast of non-official notices and opinion as well as a means to access video of meetings and information about town and regional events of interest.
You may email me directly with any news, links or other information and I will gladly add them for you. My email is gstadig@gmail.com. If you are a town business and would like a link to you’re enterprise included on the website or have a sale etc. Email the information and I will be glad to add it in.
The site is equipped with RSS (real simple syndication) so you may subscribe for new posts and get them delivered automatically to you see the link above if you’re not familiar with RSS.
See you about town and at the meetings!
My email is gstadig@gmail.com – I look forward to hearing from you
Welcome …
Glen Stadig