Taxes & Spending

Introduction

East Haven families work hard to make ends meet. Our local government must do the same. Every dollar the Town spends comes from our taxpayers. Residents deserve a mayor who treats that responsibility with respect.

The Problem

Every non-election year, residents see taxes rise while services decline. Overspending and mismanagement at Town Hall and the Board of Education have cost taxpayers millions. This administration received over $8 million in Covid (ARPA) funds and still managed to raise taxes and cut services. Meanwhile, residents are kept in the dark about where their money really goes.

My Position

I believe in responsible budgeting, open books, and protecting taxpayers. East Haven must live within its means, just as families do. Overspending, hidden costs, and backroom deals must end.

MY PLAN

1. Open the Books: Publish an easy-to-read, online breakdown of all Town spending so residents know exactly where their money goes.

2. Strict Budget Oversight: Require real-time reporting from departments, including the Board of Education, to prevent massive overages.

3. Cut Waste, Not Services: Hire qualified people, not friends; Freeze pay raises to administration positions. Protect services from being taken away like bulk trash pickup.

4. Economic Planning: Seek out high-value businesses that align with our vision of East Haven, grow the tax base without burdening residents with added costs.

5. Taxpayer Protection Policy: Require that any major financial commitment by the Town (like agreements tied to Tweed) include a clear disclosure of costs to East Haven families.

Conclusion

East Haven families can’t afford more broken promises and ballooning budgets. As mayor, I’ll protect your paycheck by restoring fiscal discipline, cutting waste, and making government truly accountable to you.