This first day of winter is a good time to take stock — spiritually and economically.

Property taxes can no longer continue to carry the entire burden in funding municipal services. Across the state, the sirens are already ringing.

Mainers value fairness, restraint and the protection of the vulnerable. These values do not cease to apply when the suffering takes place far from home.

Sensible steps can strengthen our grid and create jobs that benefit families and communities across the state.

As it stands, Mainers won’t reap some of the benefits of the recently signed Working Families Tax Cut Act.

People need essential items. They also need things that are less tangible; things that allow them to focus on something other than surviving.