To the editor:
Recently, I answered this question for the Current’s Candidates Guide: “Do you support the override this June? Which tier will you vote for and why?” This letter to the editor updates my position based on additional information that I learned this week. The update is important to me because it shows the value of due diligence as a continuous process for decision making. As election day approaches, I continue to challenge myself to make the best decision possible as a voting member of this community. Please see my updated answer below:
I support stabilizing the town’s financial situation and services while holding ourselves accountable. We must take a measured approach to raising taxes. I attended the Super Saturday session that the Finance Committee held with all departments. Every department presented its financial budget. I am confident the town needs an override. Under Alec Goolsby and Molly Teets’ leadership, I trust that the Finance Committee has worked hard on the budget numbers for several years.
That said, high-level presentations communicating the budget to the community seemed hurried and unclear, causing some confusion and distrust regarding the overall process. I support Tier 2 and commit to exploring ways to run the town more efficiently. As we stabilize, we must be disciplined about how we draw from the tax base. I am confident that the quarterly joint financial reviews, under the MOU, can powerfully drive accountability for how, when, where and why funds are used.
Finally, regarding trash collection, solid arguments exist on both sides. We cannot change our current situation; at this point, we need people to vote on their future preference. I may support the override, but I also see the opportunity in a fee-based structure to allow people more choice.
Regardless of the community’s decision, I recommend applying lessons learned from the last trash collection override. We must start now to establish the right processes and oversight ensuring we avoid this situation again.
Rossana Ferrante, Select Board candidate
Stonybrook Terrace
