Editor:



I am writing this letter to endorse Jim Soule for City Council. In my
opinion, Jim’s previous service on the council showed his ability to
tackle the tough issues, while maintaining the respect of his fellow
councilors, whether in agreement or not. These are days where difficult
decisions will need to be made, and with Jim’s prior experience,
business as well as common sense will be a welcome addition to the
council. I hope you will cast your vote for Jim Soule on Nov. 7.



Ed Knutson

South Portland











Editor:



I have been following with great interest the city council election
between Jim Soule and Rosemarie DeAngelis. Those of you who have an
interest in the quality of education provided by the South Portland
school system in the future need to do your homework! No one has done
more for education in South Portland than Jim Soule. Jim co-authored
the Rosser Commission report that was the document that single-handedly
brought over $12 million more in general purpose aid to education in
South Portland between 1995 and 2005.



Ms. DeAngelis has given support to a new system of allocating school
general purpose aid known as essential programs and services or EPS.
Over the last two years, South Portland’s percentage of school aid from
the state under EPS has fallen to a 20-year low– 11 percent. She
supports this formula? It is a formula that will have devastating
effects on our schools if it is allowed to continue.



Jim Soule knows the school funding formula ought to include a median family income component.



During the years of implementation of Mr. Soule’s recommendations,
South Portland’s aid to education increased in some years over 20
percent. We need someone who will fight for the people of South
Portland. Jim knows that we send millions of dollars to the state
treasury from our business base here in South Portland. It is time we
get some of it back!



There are communities in the state with the same median-family income
as South Portland that receive 80 percent to 90 percent of their school
funding from the state. This needs to change. Please join me in
supporting someone who has already brought positive change to our
community. We need him how more than ever. South Portland needs Jim
Soule



Wayne H. Ross

South Portland



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Editor:



I am writing in support of Jim Soule’s candidacy for the South Portland
City Council. I’ve known Jim over 20 years both personally and
professionally. He will bring a wealth of knowledge to the city
council. Given his experience as a very successful business owner, he
has the ability to prioritize city budgets and bring a common sense
businesslike approach to the council. Jim has experience too with city
politics having served on the city council from 1988-1994 and two terms
as Mayor, 1989-1990 and 1991-1992. He’s a proven leader!



Jim is an extremely hardworking and dedicated family man. He’s raised
his family here and educated his three children in the So. Portland
School system. He has been a huge supporter over the years with both
the youth programs and school programs of So. Portland. I’ve never
known Jim to say no to any program in So. Portland supporting our kids.
I encourage you to join me in voting for Jim Soule on Nov. 7.



Rocco Aceto

South Portland