I was grateful to learn that the FinCom has “put a stake in the ground” for the preliminary FY2026 budget guidelines. The time has come for everyone to recognize that our relentless capacity to spend more each year must end.
We all know prices are increasing and the demand for more services is unending. That does not mean that those responsible for managing budgets are released from their responsibility to reduce costs or eliminate/reorganize services which are inefficient.
This is the very essence of management. This is also what many who live here do every year or month to make ends meet under the same economic pressures — including ever-rising real estate taxes.
The real “stake in the heart” will be to do nothing and let taxes increase until an override is necessary, which would further exacerbate the situation.
I implore all town departments to meet the FinCom’s goal with creativity and an earnest commitment to responsible town government.
Priscilla Clark
Jennie Dugan Road
