Say No To A Budget Increase

To the Editor:

It is rapidly approaching that time of the year we citizens of Newtown take to the polls to express our thoughts on the town’s annual budget. This year, we should simply say No! No to an increase of any amount in this year’s budget. We should even consider writing in a demand to cut the budget by at least ten percent. Without a strong opposition to increased taxes, the spending will continue to grow to meet the town’s increasing revenue. Why should we say No?

*Three percent a year for five years is a 16 percent increase from the base year...is your income keeping up with that?

*More tax revenue does not always equate to safer streets, better education, or increased employment. It does equate to more spending, enhanced benefits, and government growth.

*Educating our children is the usual call to arms for those compelled to raise our taxes. Children’s minds and test scores are improved through learning, not necessarily by having more teachers, administrators or growing infrastructure. Besides, our school enrollment is declining.

This year, ask yourself, When do the taxes stop increasing? Why should I pay forever, a second mortgage, held by the town, that only increases over time? Where did the money go last year?

Tell the status quo, no thanks and vote No for the town budget... even if it takes four trips to the polls to get the message across!

Larry Richardson

28 Jeremiah Road, Sandy Hook                                       April 6, 2011