Bob Sanderson's Letter to the Editor in the News-Herald
I am writing about the News-Herald’s coverage of the Concord fire station issue.
The August 11 article was focused entirely on the Trustees’ stance but didn’t address the numerous opposing views and sensible ideas of the residents who took the time to participate in a series of public input meetings.
The Township immediately came out with what appeared to be a predetermined decision to proceed with an undefined plan for Station No. 1, which was still too large and costly. The total estimated price tag for both stations is essentially the same as the one voted down in 2019 – i.e., an exorbitant $13.75 million.
The Trustees referred to the $8 million tax levy as a “just in case” amount, but we see it as a padded tax levy that will cost more than $1,600 over 26 years for a $300,000 home. Moreover, the reporter offered no personal stories expressed by the many seniors who can’t afford the constant string of incremental tax increases.
And it’s absurd to claim the levy is justified simply because it’s approximately the same millage as the Morley Library levy. That levy will end in 2021 and provide much needed tax relief to residents, so we don’t need to add another tax that negates these savings.
Affordable Concord Taxes (ACT) and our many supporters believe it is the fiduciary responsibility of our elected officials to first build a cost-effective Station No. 2 on Prouty Rd with their stated $3 million in available cash at the start of construction.
The Trustees can identify cost-saving measures as they simultaneously develop a realistic plan for Station No. 1, and then build the main station using cash and general obligation bonds that won’t increase taxes.
Less than a year ago, more than 65% of the voters sent an undeniable message to the Trustees to go back to the drawing board and come up with a new plan that meets the critical needs of our emergency responders, but that’s also more cost-effective and aligned to Concord’s specific needs.
It appears they failed that test or soon will with their current pursuit.
Bob Sanderson Treasurer,
Affordable Concord Taxes