To the Editor:

I am surprised there are not more Newtowners up in arms concerning our property taxes.

The large increase this year is outrageous — especially for those on fixed incomes. We have lived in Newtown over 45 years and have owned property for over 50.

I have talked to the different first selectmen over the years about why Newtown does not help senior citizens who have lived and contributed over 20 years to Newtown.

Some would not talk about the issue, while others said they would take it into consideration. Others said if they froze property taxes for seniors — as other cities and towns have — it would only produce an increase in other areas.

If the town had to increase the property taxes to the point where some are paying over $2,000 extra a year, Newtowners should have been offered payment plans instead of the two payments they now face. It’s just a suggestion on my part.

Senior citizens on a fixed income should be very concerned where this will lead us in the future. Others should give this matter more consideration.

Elain Mandulak

Sandy Hook

Editor’s Note: Newtown offers one of the most generous senior tax abatement programs in Connecticut for any senior who qualifies. Also, Newtown Assessor Erin Scott told The Newtown Bee that residents always have an option of making partial payments on property taxes, and encourages anyone facing challenges to reach out to her office for more information.