Newton Taxpayers Want Better Value for Tax Dollar

From Suzanne Szescila

The Newton residents who voted yes in March have coerced the rest of us into paying for higher property tax rates that we did not seek. I wonder, “Will the revenue increase damage the city’s chances for fiscal reform?”

Were the Mayor to further reform city expenditures---especially union contracts--residents could enjoy quality infrastructure and services and zero tax rate growth (in contrast to the 6.8 percent increase we face in 2014). Imagine that.

As we move Newton forward, we should all want better value for our tax dollar. Since 76 cents of every tax dollar goes automatically to public employee compensation, and since 65 cents of every dollar is consumed by education, the money left over for infrastructure and public safety is scant. The City should spend more wisely.

Still, your group for Newton fiscal responsibility is grateful. We appreciate Mayor Warren’s engagement with Moving Newton Forward With Fiscal Responsibility and his CFO’s time. Because of them, we had the Newton budget numbers necessary to make our case for reform.

We appreciate the news organizations that helped broadcast our message. We appreciate the patience and participation of the many voters we reached---even if they voted yes. At least they voted.

Most of all, I appreciate the splendid volunteers of MNF. They worked energetically, skillfully, and joyfully to improve Newton while preserving your liberty to spend your money as you see fit.  Furthermore, many of the alumni of MNF as well as myself will be continuing our fiscal responsibility activism as part of the new Newton Taxpayers Association.