SMART BUDGETING COMING IN NOVEMBER


We are about six weeks out from Election Day here in Enfield and that time will fly by quickly. I, along with the other Republican candidates, have been out knocking on doors and meeting you, the voter. The response we are receiving has been great and positive. I am sensing that people are truly looking for change.

As we go out we get asked many questions about the school budget. The school budget is the largest part of the over all budget for the town of Enfield. People ask how can you save money and offer the best education possible. This is a valid question and needs an answer.

Let me give an example of where in the last year money might have been saved, and those dollars go directly to the classroom.

In March and April of 2006 the Board of Education was presented with an opportunity to negotiate the bus contract with Smyth Bus Company. First, let me say that the quality of service was never in question from the bus company. This was simply an ending of one contract and a beginning of a new one.

The School Board established a committee to investigate options and possible saving in the transportation budget. Before the process could come to completion, the contract was pushed through and approved. Republicans stood up for common sense and asked that the process be completed so we can be sure we are getting the best deal possible and save the taxpayers some money. However, their voices were ignored and the contract was approved.

Some weeks later we all read in the newspapers where a nearby town got a lower price for the same service. Hmmmmmm looks like we could have done better.

When people ask me how we can save money and put it in the classroom I simply say, “Smart Budgeting.”

Before we agree to spend your money I want to know all the options available and if there is a way to save money. If we have a contract with a vendor and that contract comes up for renewal, we need to seek other bids to see if we are getting the best deal. You the taxpayer trusted us with your money and we need to be prudent.

Smart Budgeting is common sense budgeting. For example we all have times in our personal finances when our car insurance comes up for renewal. Many, like me, spend some time on the phone and the computer seeing if we are still getting the best price possible. We may stay with what we have or we may find that there is a better deal somewhere else. The main thing is we did our homework. You should expect the same from your local government.

Therefore, when I am asked on the campaign trail what will you do? I share these types of examples of smart budgeting.

There are some events in September and October that will give you a chance to meet the Republican Candidates. These are fundraiser's to help us win in November, but they are also designed to allow you to ask your questions. I invite you to attend:

Wine and Cheese Fund Raiser

Candidate Host Jason Jones

Date: Saturday September 29th

Time: 6:30-9PM

Location: The Hall Home, 14 Long Hollow Road, Enfield

Asked donation: $10.00

Car Wash
Date: Sunday September 30th
Bosco Automotives Parking Lot
9:00AM to Noon
Cost: $5.00

Ice Cream and Politics
Candidate Host: Bill Ragno
Wednesday, October 3rd
Thompsonville Creamery on Pearl Street
Time: 5:30-8:00 PM
Cost: $10.00
Includes Entertainment

Many of the Candidates will be at these events and look forward to meeting you. You also can check out our web site at: www.ertc.net