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Help Taxpayers Recover

In conversations with our Branford neighbors, we have heard how difficult it has been for many residents to keep up with rising costs for gasoline and groceries and how seniors and working families struggle to pay rent or the mortgage. As a town, we can help taxpayers continue to recover financially from the pandemic. Branford is in a strong position this year and even next, to be able to offer a “No Tax Increase” budget.

You would be wise to ask, how is this possible? Operational costs for Town services, staff salaries, and funding to run our excellent school district go up each year. I write on behalf of the Democratic majority on the Branford Representative Town Meeting. As a caucus, we see this possibility due to Branford’s substantial $44 million undesignated fund. This is our taxpayer money that grows each year from these budget surpluses (more tax money raised than spent).

By tapping into this surplus, Branford can still meet its financial obligations and maintain the same quality of life with no new taxes. We can spend wisely without taking more money out of the pockets of Branford taxpayers. It’s the right thing to do.

Tracy Everson

Branford

Tracy Everson is the majority leader for the Branford Representative Town Meeting