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Keep Moving Forward

Since moving to Deep River 20 years ago, we have observed many improvements to the town. However, the challenges of the past are not the same as the challenges in the future.

Renewable energy, environmental pressures, artificial intelligence, shifting demographics, varying social expectations, and other factors will drive change while we strive to maintain the character of our town.

In addition, Deep River has a relatively high tax rate and lower income levels in contrast to other local towns. Connecticut ranks among the highest states for taxation, according to Tax Foundation, and was recently cited as the seventh most expensive state to raise a child, according to LendingTree.

Therefore, managing these changes while keeping Deep River’s quality of life affordable will be paramount for the new leader of Deep River. We can’t just rely on more taxes and more fees.

Katie Russell has the business and fiscal management experience that will be essential in meeting these new challenges. She is able to attract new tax-supporting businesses and foster collaborative relationships that can lead to cost-effective improvements.

Katie also brings her experience to working with non-profit organizations such as the library. She is collaborating with local merchants for better traffic safety in town.

Katie has become involved with school officials regarding the declining enrollment problem in our schools. School costs already require about two-thirds of the town’s annual expenditures. Clearly, new ideas will be necessary to overcome these issues.

We need to keep Deep River moving forward while maintaining our quality of life along with effective fiscal management.

That’s why Katie Russell should be the new leader of Deep River.

Jerry Richard

Deep River