This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.

An Opportunity to Deliver

Last November, Democrats ran on investing in Old Saybrook to preserve the community we all love. At that time, the voters clearly agreed, giving us the majority on the Board of Finance and increasing our representation on several critical boards and commissions. During the campaign, we repeatedly heard that residents wanted our homes and beaches to be protected from the ravages of climate change. They wanted us to find ways to make Old Saybrook more attractive and available for young families. Additionally, they wanted us to limit sprawl by planning and zoning for a vibrant economic future that maintained our small-town feel. Recently, at an informal focus group of young parents, we heard about the critical importance of improving our beaches, our parks, and, most importantly, increasing our stock of affordable housing.

Now, as we enter the heart of budget season, we have an opportunity to deliver on some of the promises we made. A budget is a statement of a community’s values and its priorities, and, as such, it communicates what we hold dear. One of our priorities has always been a low tax rate, but we must couple that goal with sensible investment in the programs we most need. Over the next few weeks, I encourage residents to attend our budget workshops and to study the proposals being made by both the Board of Education and the First Selectman. Make sure this budget includes the investments we need, and tell your elected officials that, here in Old Saybrook, we are willing to invest to preserve and enhance our community.

Herbert Searle, Chair

Old Saybrook Democratic Town Commitee