The League of Women Voters–East Shore agrees with Meg Weisberg (March 2 letter “Between Now and Then”) that “open, civil conversations” are needed to help voters learn how the proposed budget will affect them. Thus, we will host an additional daytime public discussion of the 2017-’18 Town Budget on Monday, April 10 at 9 a.m. in Town Hall. First Selectman Joseph Mazza, Board of Finance Chairman Matt Hoey, and Board of Education Chairman Bill Bloss will join us, in part to accommodate voters who could not attend the April 4 Annual Town Meeting.

Voters are encouraged to come ask questions or comment on the overall budget and the five proposed bonding requests, in preparation for the budget referendum on Tuesday, April 18, when all five regular polling places will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The combined town and education budget plus five bond questions will appear as separate “Yes” or “No” votes on the ballot.

The mission of the League of Women Voters is to encourage active participation in government at all levels, but especially on the local level where residents’ lives are most directly impacted. Voting on April 18 is the most important way Guilford voters (and some property owners) can voice their opinion on how their local taxes will support Guilford’s government and schools over the next year and more.

The League of Women Voters–East Shore urges Guilford residents to participate in their town’s budget process. We look forward to seeing them on April 10 and then celebrating a high voter turnout on Tuesday, April 18.

Elise Low

The League of Women Voters–East Shore

Guilford