Issues

1. Encourage Economic Development

The Selectmen must provide leadership to broaden the tax base. We need more revenue and it can’t just come from the property tax. We need more jobs. I’ll work for economic development, in cooperation with the Economic Development Task Force, other members of the BOS, the Pianning Bd, Westport Business to Business and I’ll bring in regional partners.

• Build on the early community planning work for Route 6 for high tech, professional services;
• Planning Board is planning zoning changes to support the growth of “welcome” commercial development on Route 6;
• We need to simplify the permitting process, in cooperation with other responsible boards;
• We need big ideas; they take time. We have to start now.

2. Advocate for fiscally responsible decisions

According to an actuarial report that is done by the Town auditor every three years, the Town faces huge liabilities in both the contractual obligations for employee’s health care as well as pensions.

There is pending state legislation as well as a 2011 Town Meeting article that propose to shift Medicare eligible retirees’ health care costs to Medicare. This will save the Town money. I will work to assure that the Town’s retired employees are well informed of the process, receive equivalent benefits, and are treated fairly.

• The state has proposed legislation requiring this change to Medicare.
• The FinCom is preparing an article for Town Meeting to require this shift from Town funding to Medicare.
• I will help by organizing informational meetings with opportunities to explain the proposed changes and address concerns.
• We need to review and evaluate the Town’s liabilities along with the Department of Revenue recommendations.

3. Engage the Community

We need to develop multiple ways of informing the community about all these issues. Without effective communication, we cannot build trust.

• Work with BOS to make timely, accurate information a priority.
• Find ways that our website can be a timely source of information.
• Engage the community – Improve communication, reach out and build cooperation. This is a constant job; we should be proactive and send news releases to the press. I will have an open door and scheduled time at Town Hall and other locations around town for people to come by to talk.

4. More Professional Town Management

A significant process to evaluate and improve Town management is underway with the Ad Hoc Committee. I support their efforts to clarify roles and stream line government operations, Issues include:

• Evaluate the role and effectiveness of appointed vs. elected full time positions.
• Clarify the roles and responsibilities the BOS and the Town Administrator.