I would like to support the Board of Education budget and the town budget.

I believe that the Board of Education acted very responsibly in bringing in a budget representing a total increase of 1.09 percent. It made significant cuts to the administration’s proposed budget, eliminating four proposed positions and additional curriculum. There were only moderate increases to essential areas like facility repairs, custodial supplies, and a student resource officer.

I believe the Board of Selectmen and the Board of Finance has done a good job to reduce the town’s budget to reflect the current economic uncertainty. There are no new positions. It maintains crucial services for residents, supports public health and safety (which is critical in this time of pandemic) and continues to fund important infrastructure.

It is my understanding that the proposed mill rate increase will be 1.1 percent, which is well below historic averages. As a former member of the Board of Selectmen, I am intimately aware of the balancing act that must happen to ensure tax dollars are being wisely spent. It is my opinion that these budgets are reasonable and I urge the Board of Finance to approve them in May.

Joan Walker

Madison

Joan Walker chairs the Democratic Town Committee.