Pay Attention and Vote
I get it; no one likes taxes, particularly ones that are persistent and never seem to go down. “Death and taxes” is the apt phrase. However, as a citizen and homeowner here in Guilford, I appreciate the services the town provides. Whether it’s the fire department that puts out a brush fire yards from our home within minutes of calling them, the ambulance service to Yale New Haven, a great school system (rated highly statewide and nationally), or the incredible service by our neighbors and friends who serve on our dozens of volunteer boards and commissions, diligently and conscientiously, with the rules and codes they operate under always top of mind.
Facts matter—at least, I hope so. Perspective: From the 2018-’19 budget to the 2024-’25 budget, the average increase has been 3.26%. The CPI US inflation rate over the same period has been 3.817%. Our Grand List has grown by 4.94%, vs. the average mill rate increase of 1.89%.
The Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance will certainly be making some thoughtful budget changes before the next referendum. Only 18% of eligible voters showed up for the last referendum! So, I encourage all voters to pay attention and vote. Participate! Don’t be a citizen bystander to your town budget.
Sean Cosgrove
Guilford