To the editor:

Dear Richard Staples and the committee on appropriations, thank you for inviting representatives from the state pension board to your meeting.

I believe the COA serves our community well when it identifies, quantifies, and communicates fiscal issues.

I was disturbed by the committee's stated responses to the presentation. It appears we are going to endure another year of denial and deflection. Underfunded liabilities are a fiscal cancer. Like all cancers, early treatment is best option for a positive outcome. Our cancer is growing at a fast rate and will have grave implications for upcoming generations of students.

The perceived value of the pet projects of today pale in comparison to the fiscal challenges of the near future.

I implore you to cut through the spin and present the facts to our community. I have confidence in the collective wisdom of our town. The voters need the facts.

Thank you and best regards,

Chad Mollica

Barrington