Editor, The Spotlight:
The Town of New Scotland Republican committee has determined that this year, the Republican Party would not run a town candidate. Although much consideration was taken and candidates wanted to run, the Republican Party felt as a whole that we would better serve the community if for the next two years we promote ideas to improve our town and present real solutions to problems the Town of New Scotland is facing today and will be facing in the near future.
The latest article in The Spotlight dated June 19 titled “New Scotland Dems back incumbents” it becomes clear that our town leadership is satisfied with past accomplishments, presents no plans for the future and is willing to exaggerate or provide false information when promoting their minor achievements. This article is a clear example of the effects of the shortcomings of a single party government. With a single party rule the only focus is on the next election and not the growth of the town.
While the issue of the “Big Box” development was defeated there have been no clear plans for future development to help generate revenue. The Town Board remains satisfied that they defeated the big box development over four years ago, while at the same time Slingerlands is receiving increased tax revenues and employment with the Vista Development. It would seem that Slingerlands has leadership which thinks outside the box and has allowed proper growth which can be seen with the recent opening of the ShopRite. For those who drive to ShopRite, keep in mind that with proper planning this store, with its taxes and employment could have been located at the intersection of 85 and 85A. As our school taxes continue to increase the only option the Town Board will have is to look at higher taxes on each homeowner or reduce services to all including our seniors.
Town Board member Doug LaGrange who is seeking his third four-year term, states “that there was even a year or two where we actually had a tax decrease.” I hope that The Spotlight challenges him on this statement as one would think that he would know the exact date of a tax reduction. Doug LaGrange wants to “find the best way to provide services with the least impact on the taxpayer’s wallets.” Good luck Doug as our town expenses are increasing at a rate which should concern all taxpayers. Once you review the 50 percent increased cost for the town attorney and lack of tax revenue coming into the town the only options will be to either reduce services or increase taxes.
Yes the Town of New Scotland offers many benefits and we are lucky to live in such a town however this fortune is due to our past leaders.
Glenn Schultz
Town of New Scotland Republican Committee Member