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A Warning About Taxes and Spending

I’m Paul Radicchi, candidate for Chester Board of Selectmen, with a message mostly not about politics. I’m writing to Chester friends and neighbors: Heads up, some advice, and a warning about taxes and spending.

As of Oct 1st, revaluation letters began being mailed to Chester property owners. These values are an assessment – the “valuation” on your property for assessing property tax.

This revaluation – conducted every 10 years by state law – intends to keep assessments fair and balanced. I’m a realist, so I’ll acknowledge government isn’t perfect, and who is fond of taxes? Yet, taxes are essential for government to function – for the dozens of things essential to our existence and quality of life.

Now, for advice: Please do not be angry about the amount of taxes and take it out on our town assessor, tax collector, or finance director. The assessment is conducted by a professional firm hired by the town. If you believe your assessment unfair – out of whack with neighbors – you can appeal it through the assessor’s office: Please be respectful and considerate.

Mad about excessive spending? Those decisions are made by your selectmen, school boards, and Board of Finance. If elected, Ron Amara and I will focus on managing those costs by separating actual needs from wishes.

Now a warning and the politics: I’m running for the Board of Selectmen with Ron Amara. We both believe fiscal responsibility must be at the core of making Chester affordable for all. When people talk “affordability,” it must include those who built and preserved Chester.

I’ve lived in Chester all my life, Ron Amara for decades. We’ve raised families here. We welcome everyone. Let’s keep Chester affordable, including for those already here. The Amara-Radicchi ticket asks for your vote Nov. 7. Thank you.

Paul Radicchi

Chester