To the Editor:
“The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else.” Anon.
The Shrewsbury library plans a $23.3 million expansion at the same time the town is promoting another $5.5 million override for the schools. The funding for both will come from the taxpayers no matter how labeled or entitled. Library plans include tearing down the sound building next door for parking. A short walkway to connect the two buildings should suffice for space. As well there are newer ways to get reading material. The public has been misled on need and finances.
On 12-4-13 a news report states that a Shrewsbury “Study committee says the town is at the end of its financial rope.? No new revenues likely, and no good places to cut.”
The town will continue to require more schools because the town still allows three house lots per acre. When the town sewer could no longer be used was the perfect time to upgrade zoning to one acre per building lot. The school children per acre influences the tax rate, translates to the endless search for more money, the effort to attract business, houses turned into condos, a breakdown of town values. The current cost of residents per acre will, among other things, drive seniors out of town when they are a relatively cost free tax bonus. Both school and library schemes show little concern for those on a fixed income.
Common sense says the town should forgo the 2 1/2 override for the humongous library because the town can’t afford it and there are other options. Use any allocated funds for school needs. It's a matter of priorities. If the $5.5 million school claims succeed at the polls, the voters should plan on the same arguments for more permanent overrides for school, fire, police and the proposed library. Two overrides in one year suggests a problem in town management. Please vote NO on the 2 /12 override on June 3
Priscilla J. Ham
Shrewsbury