There has been much confusion over debt repayment in Lewiston and Auburn if the cities should choose to consolidate on Nov. 7. That is a non-issue.

It is a non-issue according to both the Joint Charter Commission report and state law. Only Lewiston taxpayers will pay off Lewiston’s current debt. Only Auburn taxpayers will pay off Auburn’s current debt.

After consolidation goes into effect, on January of 2020, any new debt will be equally shared on both sides of the river. After all current debt is retired, taxpayers in the new city of Lewiston-Auburn will pay exactly the same tax rate.

I have spent equal halves of my 50 years on both sides of this river, have fought for the best interests of my friends and neighbors, proudly serving them on the planning and school boards.

I hope residents of the Twin Cities will help get the best value for their dollars by voting “yes” for the future opportunities.

Walter Hill, Lewiston