The Bottom Line Is Money

To the Editor:

After reading the “Commentary” in last week’s Bee, let’s cut to the chase –– any way you slice the “mill rate” and the “budget,” the bottom line is money. More money from the people who have lived in town and seen property values skyrocket –– not of their choosing but because of the “McMansions” being built all over town. It’s these new homes that are straining the town services and creating a burden on the older, established residents. I have a neighbor who is a widow and her increase from Social Security this year is less than what her taxes will be raised based on the estimated mill rate increase coupled with the revaluation. Undoubtedly, the PTA will send flyers home with the children telling them to have their parents vote for the budget, or the “Chicken Little” mentality, where dire consequences will happen –– wrong. The budget can be reduced and the school will still meet and exceed state standards, and contract obligations met. It’s the “fat” that needs to be trimmed, especially in these days of economic downturn where the “fixed income” individuals, the Social Security increase was 1.3 percent and people have seen their 401K’s dwindle.

The budget as presented has to be voted down, and next Tuesday, April 22, in the voting booth is the way to stop it. It’s time to reign in the spending and send a message to the town fathers.

PS –– Why are the lights still on at the Reed School very late at night, it almost looks like the Las Vegas strip, but it’s devoid of any noticeable vehicles.

Sincerely,

Arthur W. Hechler

2 Bayberry Drive, Newtown        April 14, 2003