A positive vote on July 25 to allow Westport to adopt a budget override will restore balance to the town’s fiscal affairs. The Westport Fiscal Stability Group’s report (posted on the town’s website) is both enlightening and frightening. It is obvious that we have kicked the can to the end of the road and that the town is in a dangerous position.  

Sustaining one of the lowest tax rates in the state has come at a great cost to all of us, as town services are on a downward spiral.

Just three examples from the report: 

The town is short four to five positions in fire and emergency medical positions below recommended national standards. 

In addition, the town has numerous vacancies which require existing employees to carry additional burdens. It is naive, if not irresponsible, to expect Westport’s employees to bear this burden, especially when their salary and benefits are often not competitive. Employees are leaving and finding replacements will be challenging and expensive.

Finally, Westport’s back-up funds are considerably below what Westport needs. The town cannot repair broken equipment nor provide regular maintenance. This situation will surely cost us more in the near future. We should anticipate that there will be unforeseen emergencies.

The cost to the average taxpayer is $108 in the first year and a total of $330 over the three years. While no one wants to see an increase, I am confident the cost of doing nothing will be far greater. During the three years that the override is phased in, Westport can work to find a lasting solution to the structural deficit. While there is no magic bullet, I am confident that the town can improve its dire position. The thoughtful effort of our neighbors on the Fiscal Stability Group and the commitment of our elected representatives gives me hope that we can fix this problem. 

The voters need to put Westport on the path to restore balance to our financial affairs. I urge you to vote yes on July 25 and to encourage your friends to do so as well.

Robert White

Westport