Rome’s student cost went down, so why are our taxes increasing (article, “Property tax jumps 25 percent in Rome,” April 23)?

Rome has used up its reserve to cushion state decisions. Rome under-budgeted education last year, and some of last year’s bill is due. Rome’s state valuation rose, so we must contribute more.

For these reasons, our taxes increase. The RSU 18 increase contributes zero.

RSU 18 state funding has dropped $3.8 million since 2009-10 because of improved valuation, so our contribution has risen. Rome’s education mil rate at 7.4 is the area’s lowest: Augusta is 18.67, Waterville is 27.40.

Consider accomplishments by RSU 18 administration, teachers, school board, citizens, superintendent and selectmen. Three school districts merged. The seven-year average budget increase is less than 0.5 percent. Our cost per student is 15 percent below state average. This budget increase (2.77 percent) is less than the average for neighbors (3.51 percent).

Our five-year graduation rate is 90 percent, or 6 percent better than Maine average. Ninety-seven percent of the 2014 class (of those who wanted) succeeded in entering college, apprenticeships, the military or certification programs.

Our French language team has been recognized by the state. Our music students are selected for All State Jazz Choir, Band, Chorus and National Honor Choir. One senior was Maine cabinetmaking champion. Our school has winners in culinary arts, technical math, medical terminology, and television production. Our boys hockey team is state champions, and one basketball player has joined a Division I college team.

I support our selectman’s financial decisions, our state cost allocation and the effort by our teachers, staff, superintendent, school board, selectmen and residents in creating the 2015-16 RSU 18 budget. Our wonderful students are our responsibility.

I encourage residents to vote yes on the RSU 18 budget.

Andrew G. Cook, representative

RSU 18 School Board

Rome