Date: Fri 04-Apr-1997

Publication: Bee

Author: STEVEB

Quick Words:

Cascella-survey-selectman

Full Text:

Selectman's Survey Responses Start To Come In

People in Newtown have a lot to say about how their town is run.

The office of First Selectman Bob Cascella recently sent out 260 evaluation

surveys, asking residents how they felt about town services. So far, according

to administrative assistant Carol Ross, nearly 20 percent of the surveys have

been sent back with responses.

"They've given us a lot of information for us to work with," Mrs Ross said.

In the past, Mrs Ross said surveys were sent out along with a stamped return

envelope. However, some residents complained, saying it was just another

expense to the town. This time, the surveys did not include a stamped

envelope. Sure enough, one resident responded negatively.

"Your office providing the stamp would be more considerate of the taxpayers,"

wrote the resident on the back of the envelope.

The first selectman's survey has been updated to include new questions on

current issues in town. It asks residents their opinion on the town's:

Economic Positioning - where does the town want to fit in the region.

Development - types and amount of development to reach a preferred balance.

Education - is the town spending enough for its schools?

Traffic and Transportation - is the town spending enough for its roads?

Fire and Ambulance Services - quality of service, volunteer vs paid service.

Current Service Needs - current town services and structure.

Future Service Needs - determining the town's needs as its population grows.

More information on the responses to the surveys will be published in The Bee

when more are returned.