To the Editor:

On Tuesday, April 22, Newtown voters go to the polls to determine the fate of the proposed budgets for the next fiscal year, 2014-2015.   We strongly encourage voters to respond affirmatively to the proposed spending plan of the Board of Selectmen and of the Board of Education.  Each of these budgets has been developed to address critical needs and services, while at the same time respecting the call to hold the line on property taxes. The budgets to be voted on will not raise taxes, but do include funds for school security officers; increased funding for senior tax abatement; additional reserves for the medical self-insurance fund; and more money for capital road repair.  These modifications to the original spending proposals are actions of the Board of Finance, a body showing wisdom and forward thinking in helping our community position itself better to respond to immediate and near-term future needs.

We join members of the Legislative Council, the Board of Finance, the Board of Education, our Interim Superintendent Dr. John Reed, and newly appointed Superintendent Dr. Joseph Erardi in asking voters to go to the polls and affirm the budget proposals for municipal and education services.  

Sincerely,

First Selectman E. Patricia Llodra

Selectman William F.L. Rodgers

Selectman James O. Gaston

3 Primrose Street, Newtown                        April 15, 2014