Spring is here, and that means budget season in Windsor! This week, the Town Council unanimously passed a bipartisan budget with a budgetary tax increase of 1.88% (for reference, 2018 inflation was 1.9%, so in real terms, this is a slight cut). The referendum will be held Tuesday, May 14, 2019.
Look up your polling place here!
What’s the bottom line?
This year’s town budget maintains all services and restores money for our public schools, all with a budgetary tax increase of 1.88% — less than the rate of inflation.
What’s new in the budget?
Even as costs continue to climb and net state aid is reduced, the town will be able to add the following:
- Projects approved by the voters will begin: the Mill Brook open space recreation area, new public safety complex, and a public safety radio system to keep our first responders safe.
- The police department will hire a community mental health clinician to address the opioid crisis and keep both police and people with mental illness safe.
- Over ten miles of road resurfacing and repair.
- A new personal finance teacher at the high school so that Personal Finance will become a required course for all graduates.
- Expansion of our innovative summer school program that educates kids, creates school/family partnerships, and costs significantly less than traditional summer school.
What about budget cuts?
In order to keep the budgetary tax increase below the rate of inflation while making targeted increases to support our priorities, the schools made $390,000 in cuts to lower-priority spending, while the town government made approximately $100,000 in cuts.
Why should I vote YES?
For decades, Windsor has worked hard to promote economic growth, provide great services, and innovate in the school system while staying thrifty and responsible. Windsor has the second-lowest median property tax burden in the Hartford area. We want to continue to grow economically, improve our schools (and support increasing school enrollment as young families choose Windsor), and keep Windsor beautiful.
What about revaluation?
Revaluation takes place every five years under state law. The changes to your home’s assessment will take effect regardless of whether the budget passes. About 15% of homes will see either no tax increase or even a decrease. To see what your tax bill will be, both due to revaluation and the budget, visit https://townofwindsorct.com/finance/town-budget/fy-2020/tax-calculator/ .
How can I learn more?
More complete information is available on the town’s website. In addition, the League of Women Voters and CTVotes is holding informational forums:
Wednesday, May 1, 2019: 6:30 PM
Poquonock School
Community Budget Forum
Thursday, May 9, 2019: 6:30 PM
Community Center at 330 Windsor Avenue
Community Budget Forum
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