The blue Middlebrook School auditorium seats were scattered with teachers, parents, students and taxpayers at Wednesday night's meeting on the education budget. All Wilton residents who wanted to voice their opinions to the Board of Education and the Board of Finance had a chance to make a three-minute comment.
Most residents who spoke said they were willing to pay the proposed 6.6 percent tax increase to enable the school budget to increase 4.66 percent for the next school year. "The Hickey household is not bringing in a lot of money," Pam Hickey said in a shaky voice. "But I will pay more taxes to make sure the schools are better." This sentiment was echoed throughout the night.
Another resident said he supports the proposed budget but the town of Wilton needs to be more like Netflix than like Blockbuster in the future. Netflix has figured out how to be good and fast and cheap, he said. Wilton needs to figure out how to get a good education system at a reasonable cost.
A few other residents expressed similar sentiments they support the budget with the caveat that the boards look closely at where the funds are allocated and places where cuts can be made or money can be collected.
A few budget opponents spoke as well. One said extracurricular activities should not be included in the school budget. "I wish Wilton would pay for my golf lessons," he said. Another opponent said, "I think the school budget should be reduced to reflect the real cost of inflation."
The Board of Finance will deliberate about the mill levy next week. The public is welcome but no public comment will be heard.
Are you willing to pay more in taxes for the school budget to get its increase? Leave a comment below!
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