Count us in as two yes votes for the pending override scheduled for March 3. Here are two (of many reasons) why:
First, our city is exceedingly well managed. Our budget is lean and mean. We cannot escape the fact that the annual cost of running the city rises more than the revenue we’re allowed by law to raise. This means that we need the occasional, modest override to maintain basic services.
Second, we believe the state can and should provide more aid for our schools, roads and climate-related initiatives. Even as we fight for more state funding bolstered by fair taxation, we must deal with the immediate reality that without an override now, Northampton will be forced to make cuts that will affect our schools, public safety, infrastructure and so much more.
Kudos to city officials who have gone the distance to explain the override and all available exemptions. Join us in voting yes on March 3.
Ann Hennessey
Jo Comerford
Florence