We are disheartened to see lawn signs opposing the Hadley Proposition 2½ override. The consequences are clear: quality municipal and educational services will be severely compromised.
As town leaders have explained at recent forums, Hadley’s current tax rate of $11.63 per thousand is the lowest out of 14 surrounding communities. Sunderland has the second lowest tax rate per thousand at $13.02. However, unlike Hadley, it does not have a 24/7 fire department, or an EMS service, and it has only one school (elementary). If the override passes, Hadley would have the 13th lowest tax rate out of these 14 towns.
This override does not add any positions. It provides a buffer for unexpected capital needs and reduces reliance on borrowing. It addresses regular maintenance needs and costly deferred maintenance. Also, it addresses the mid-year health insurance increase that many towns are experiencing, in the amount of $480,000.
Voting yes means we can maintain our 24/7 fire and police department, emergency responders, public health director, as well as dedicated staff in our school department, Senior Center and library. We urge you to join us and vote YES on the override.
Margaret Mastrangelo and Devorah Jacobson
Hadley