State Tax Cuts

The legislature is currently debating Governor Rell's proposed car tax elimination and property tax credit cut (see "Rell Bid to Drop Cart Tax Hits Rut" in today's Hartford Courant). We are beginning to analyze the potential impact on our budget planning in Meriden, not only for now, but future years. I know our state delegation has been reading this blog, I'm sure they'd be interested in this forum's feedback.

What do you think about the state tax cut proposals?

Ground Rules

Well, as I said in my initial post, I will be learning as we go along. The intent of this effort is to provide an open forum for information and an exchange of opinions on issues of interest to the citizens of Meriden.

I hope when information is posted here, the facts are accurate. But if they're not, or need clarification, I expect feedback that will correct any errors. Opinions, however, are subjective, and I look for them to be free-ranging, conflicting and controversial at times, supported or attacted depending on a writer's personal point of view. That's the point of this blog.

What will be unwelcome, however, are personal attacks and profanity. These are not allowed on the council floor and in fact are ruled out of order. Speakers, whether councilors or the public, are refrained from such action. That will happen here. Facts can be challenged, opinions can be debated heatedly. But personal name-calling or attacks, and profanity, will not be allowed. I hope this forum can be respectful of contributors, and keep out of the gutter. Let's be considerate of each other, OK? You can still get your point across.

Public Hearing: Sports Complex

On Thursday, March 2, there will be a public hearing at Washington Middle School, chaired by Public Works and Parks/Rec Committee Chairman, Councilor Mike Rohde. The topic involves a resolution to support the construction of a new sports complex at Falcon Field, prompted by a $2 million grant procurred through the State by State Senator Tom Gaffey. This grant is contingent upon a matching $2 million grant from the City.

Lobbying has begun in earnest, with letters to the editor running in support of the measure. I have heard both support and opposition from "man on the street" surveys, both solicited and unsolicited, as well as emails. The opposition is primarily, "The City can't afford it, I can't afford the taxes now." I'm sure other councilors have heard the same. (I've created an informal poll in the sidebar. While not scientific, it will give you a chance to give an opinion and view what other readers have said.).

I urge all interested parties, both for and against, or those who just want to hear opinions, to attend. This is a great time to be heard in person. Unfortunately, I will not be present due to business travel outside the state. But I have requested that the hearing be taped for viewing on the public channel, so others can see and hear for themselves as well. I will be watching it, as it will help me decide my vote when the time comes.

Let's talk about this...

"There will always be dissident voices heard in the land expressing opposition without alternatives, finding fault but never favor, perceiving gloom on every side, and seeking influence without responsibility."

John F. Kennedy, Speech for the Dallas Trade Mart which was never delivered.
US Democratic politician (1917 - 1963)

Bear with me. I'm new at this fairly new but rapidly growing form of intercommunication, so this effort may seem choppy and erratic at times. But I thought it would be interesting to set up yet another way to talk to and hear from Meriden's citizens. Council members are an accessible lot, despite what some folks say. I usually bristle when I hear a vocal minority say that we're difficult to approach, and unresponsive. We're members of the Meriden community, just like everyone else. We shop at local markets, go to local movies, eat at local restaurants, sit at ballfields, buy gas at the corner station...and invariably someone will come up and start up a conversation about something they've read in the R-J, or saw on the Council meeting broadcast. I can't speak on behalf of my colleagues, but I would bet they're like me, and listen to the comments or questions, and take note of complaints or suggestions. That's how we got elected, and that's how we learn what's going on in the City, most times.

However, maybe it's not that easy to start a conversation, or come to a Council or Committee meeting at City Hall, or just call a Councilor at home. I've seen an increase in email traffic, which is good. But it isn't an easy experience to observe, or share with others. So I thought I'd try this blog.

Time permitting, I will try to post issues the Council is facing, or considering. I'll also ask questions, and hope I get good answers. I'll also try to give a perspective on how resolutions are developed, debated and voted upon. Granted, these will be from my point of view, but this blog will allow comments to be posted that can carry the dialogue forth. And I hope I get suggestions on how to make this blog better. Maybe we'll all learn something, and make Meriden better. Which is what this is all about.

It's a pity that President Kennedy was unable to deliver the quote above on that fateful November day in Dallas. I would like to have heard his challenge on how to handle those voices. Perhaps this blog is one way. Let's begin.

If your City Council accomplished only one thing in 2006, what would you like it to be? (for those new to blogging, just hit the "comments" link below to post a response.).