To Lewis and Day: Why Did You Take Pay Raises?

I am writing to state my displeasure with both Senator Jason Lewis and Representative Michael Day for voting themselves and the legislative leadership a handsome pay and benefits raise costing Massachusetts taxpayers over $18 million dollars annually.

Rep Day and Senator Lewis (pictured) have been scarcely seen in public setting since this vote has been taken, many members of the community would like to know why these legislators would take such actions. As a member of the community I am frustrated with the lack of support from the legislature and the dead silence on this vote. Stoneham's level if local aid has been reduced to below levels received 10 years ago while our educational and infrastructural needs continue to grow rapidly. Additionally, Stoneham cannot get state approved reimbursements to build a new high school as our application has been rejected time and time again offering no hope to the taxpayers and our future students.

More troubling are some legislators’ appetite for attempting to mandate local initiative taxes in the form of a mileage tax, alcohol tax, and Senator Lewis’ effort to double the meals tax – these taxes are local only and would be imposed solely on Stoneham Residents.

Mr. Lewis and Mr. Day, should know that many of us hardworking taxpayers have not received pay raises such as those granted in the Legislature, but our taxes are always increasing. One wonders why both of you would support such a raise at a time when our community is struggling for every dollar and receiving little help from the legislature. Bill Belechick said “do your job” to the members of the New England Patriots to make them accountable. It is time for both of you to do your jobs and answer to the people of the district as to why each of you voted for such a handsome raise for yourselves.

Sincerely,

Justin Powers