Please, be respectful
On May 16, I was in a funeral procession in Winsted on Wetmore Avenue. It was to lay to rest my dearest friend of 63 years. For many years she ran her family business in Winsted until it closed. So, she contributed to the economy in Winsted.
I’m appalled at the mentality of several drivers who cut off the funeral procession. The vehicle that was most annoying had a veteran license plate which made us stop for a red light. It baffles me how little respect was shown. Why have people forgotten the etiquette of the road? I’m saddened by others’ inconsiderate ways.
Joy Calhoun
Winsted
Vote ‘yes’
on budget
I am asking voters to approve the town of Winchester budget for 2015-16 on Saturday, May 30. There are emerging signs of optimism all through town. This budget’s development is one of those signs as it was a collaboration by both parties on the Board of Selectmen and the town manager.
This budget includes an economic development consultant and planner, as other towns have, to give new business and new revenue plans support.
Funds are included for what could be the final push to a very strong fund balance and cash position for restoring our bond rating. Two bridges are included — the Holabird bridge with state funding, as well as the West Street bridge. Maintenance of the roads and infrastructure are supported with two much-needed snow removal/summer maintenance work trucks, as well as funds to keep up the roads we have recently repaired. The fire marshal’s hours are extended to insure inspections are completed to maintain public safety.
I am also aware that some are asking you vote down the budget due to the schools’ issues. The Board of Selectmen is taking steps to address the issues of the schools’ finances and will continue to do what is necessary. The schools’ operating Minimum Budget Requirement (MBR) amount will not change whether we vote now or later. The funds for any repayment we may owe may come from fund balance, cutting existing services or a repayment plan — all of which can be done with a passed budget.
In order for Winsted to compete with area towns for businesses and for people to choose us when looking for a new home, we need to put ourselves in a position to have them choose us by rebuilding and moving our town forward now.
Please join me in voting YES on Saturday, May 30.
Candy Perez
Winsted
