Positions/Issues

Taxes and Water / Sewer Rates

Less then 10 years ago, tax revenues here were about $60 million. This year, they exceeded $91 million. Our tax revenues have increased more than 50% in less than 10 years, and the bulk of that increase came out of individual taxpayers’ pockets. In that same time period however, few of us saw our own personal incomes increase by anything near 50%. Water and Sewer rates skyrocketed in that same period, and in all likelihood will be increasing by another 20% next year. It is Steve’s position that Watertown residents already pay more than their fair share of taxes, and that no future tax increases should be implemented that add to that burden.

Instead, Steve wants to see a concerted effort by town officials to reduce unnecessary spending, while increasing efficiency. Other communities have achieved such results, consolidating school and town departments to save costs. Others have used technology to increase productivity. Innovative communities have found other revenues streams exclusive of taxes, such as Passport applications, and the sale of street waste for profit. Sadly, Watertown has done too little of this, depending instead upon rapid growth and over-development. By concentrating on cutting costs and not on cutting service, Watertown government will once again be working for the people of the town.

Over - Development

Having lived in District C for 26 years, Steve and his family have seen how things have changed over the years. Sadly, much of that change has not been for the better. Too often, neighborhoods have been affected by monstrous ‘super-structures’. The town politely refers to these structures as duplex homes, in spite of the fact that there are 4 floors of living space. Worse than the structures themselves, are the parking problems and congestion resulting from unbridled construction in the district.

Growth and change may be inevitable. But that growth and change should improve our quality of life. Steve believes that properly planned development can be a win/win situation. That’s why Steve will make sure comprehensive planning becomes a reality. After all, the taxpayers in District C don’t ask for much. We’d like to be able to find parking on our street. We’d like to be able to sit on back porch and peacefully enjoy some privacy or the company of our neighbors without feeling surrounded by mega-structures.

Technology

Steve believes that updating technology and improving its use pays multiple dividends. Not only will it save money by increasing employee productivity, it also adds convenience for the end user – the taxpayer.

Let’s use Hazardous Waste disposal as an example. If residents could apply on-line for a disposal permit, it would not only save the town labor and time, but it would also encourage more people to get those materials out of their basement. Ironically as the situation stands, one is almost forced to burn fossil fuels in order to help keep the environment clean.

Environment

Recognizing that municipalities are uniquely positioned through policy and planning to reduce environmental destruction, it is important our Town Council rises to the challenge by making environmental protection a top priority.

There are many of common sense actions that the Town Council can take which are environmentally friendly. At the same time, these moves can reduce costs and improve the quality of life for all of us. These are some initiatives Steve would fight for.

• Expand partnerships with Environmentally-Friendly vendors.
• Rejuvenate Whitney Hill.
• Increase the planting of trees on thoroughfares such Waverly Avenue, Palfrey, Orchard and Church Street.
• Develop a long overdue plan to improve the flow of traffic through Watertown Square.
• Actively promote ‘Green Technology’ in current municipal facilities, when possible; but especially in new construction.
• Implement a policy that enforces shutting off lights and lowering thermostats in school and municipal buildings for rooms that are unoccupied.