Op-Ed: Brookfield: Excessive Spending, High Taxes, Needs Change!

This letter is from Brookfield resident Rich Saluga

Every two years, townspeople get an opportunity to review where we are, and whether to make
changes. I encourage all voters to do just that, and vote for some new leadership among Town officials.

For First Selectman, Mel Butow has the managerial experience and financial acumen, as well as the sensitivity to taxpayers, to begin to slow down the incredible increases in our taxes by checking the excessive and sometimes reckless spending the last four years. He has a veteran partner in Harry Shaker to assist in that effort, and all Brookfield voters should give them your support.

Mr. Butow has promised a more measured approach to growth, with an eye on producing a more
efficient budget. He is willing to be held accountable, credits others for their good work, and listens to and solicits opinions from all with whom he engages. He has pledged to work to reduce taxes, especially for seniors, and will bring true transparency and integrity to the office. This is in sharp contrast to his opponent who talks but fails at transparency, and as one resident put it "Mr. Dunn has never met a project he didn’t like."

Why the need for change? In the last four years, current leaders have increased the mill rate (taxes) almost 15 percent. (Has your income increased that much?). Thousands of tax dollars were spent on a needless study to bury utility lines; a great comptroller who had helped the town save money was let go, only to be replaced with someone whose competence, some say, was questionable and who left town amidst an apparent office scandal. Supporting a new library project which townspeople rejected in a heavy turnout, Mr. Dunn plans even more new projects, which will only result in a heavier tax burden. Taxpayers, especially seniors, cannot afford to keep this administration!

In other races, Andrea DiStephan has worked hard to learn the job of Town Clerk, has been very
responsive and always helpful. She has earned reelection to a full term. The Board of Finance (BOF) would welcome the return of Mark Mulvaney’s experience and work ethic and, with her experience in keeping the books for several small businesses, Brianna Ruocco is just what the BOF needs. Joe Beal and Logan Sullender are two new faces for the Board of Education, while Art Cresci and Jeff Brown will bring a different perspective to the Board of Assessment Appeals. You won’t find better than Renee Santiago for the Planning Commission; with Gaspare Martarano and Chris Delia, you not only will have energy and know-how on Zoning, but they actually attend meetings! Finally, Gerald Giacobone has been impressive in the press and personal appearances to advance his candidacy for Zoning Appeals Board.

Let’s see a good turnout next Tuesday, November 5th!!

Rich Saluga

Great Heron Lane, Brookfield