The following are major recommendations of the Joint Charter Commission:

1. City operations: By merging functions and cross training almost $600,000 of annual costs can be saved by merging existing administrative operations, including merging finance and operations to one department in one location.

2. Public safety: Administration would be reduced to put more officers on the streets, and the cities could establish a hybrid EMS system utilizing both firefighters and United Ambulance. The cities would have to renegotiate contracts to harmonize wages and benefits.

3. Public works and utilities: Current services would be maintained on both sides of the river with an eye toward staff specialization, particularly in engineering where there is much outsourced work. Should the cities merge, the workgroup recommends the Auburn Water District and Sewerage District be modified to include Lewiston.

4. Education: Take advantage of a nearly $500,000 in administrative savings but focus on reinventing and reinvigorating education. There also seems to be significant opportunities to save money in special education and student transport.

For full recommendations, including potential savings, an analysis of transition costs and tax impact, go to:  newlacharter.ning.com/recommendations-summary