OPINION: 'Rushed Override is Wrong' -- VoteNoFranklin

With Franklin's Looming Financial Crunch, A Plea to Vote No on the Special Election

-Submitted by Vote No Franklin

The residents of Franklin stand at a financial crossroads as the Town Council contemplates a $9.2 million tax override in a rushed special election. Yet, this decision does not exist in a vacuum; it follows a series of impending cost increases that Franklin taxpayers are poised to face.

Already on the horizon are mandatory increments, including a 2.5% property tax hike and a substantial $30 million over five years for the Town Phosphorus Control Plan. These are just the tip of the fiscal iceberg. The Tri-County School debt exclusion will tack on an additional $169 yearly for a $650k home, and the introduction of a Stormwater Utility fee will nudge household expenses upward by $10-20.

Water and sewer rates are forecasted to climb aggressively—a compounded 24% hike in water rates and an overwhelming 44% rise in sewer charges over the next three years. These augmentations dwarf the nominal 19% sewer increase experienced in FY23.

Not to be overlooked are the prospective increases in the cost of trash and recycling services, partly attributed to global market volatility, placing an additional $50 burden per household for FY25. Other capital projects, like the new Police Station and borrowing for the Remington-Jefferson infrastructure, signal further financial obligations for residents.

Amid this financial deluge, a special election for the tax override—which carries a $30,000 cost—seems not only imprudent but also a strain on the already stretched budgets of Franklin households.

Given the schedule of forthcoming increases, there is a pressing need for a measured approach that affords every taxpayer the opportunity to understand the full financial landscape before casting a pivotal vote. Hence, the public appeal is clear: the Town Council should vote "No" on the special election and allow for a more democratic process during the regular elections in November, where turnout is higher, and discussions are more robust.

In an era where every dollar counts, it's crucial for the financial stewardship of the town to reflect prudence, foresight, and a respect for the taxpayers' ability to absorb and adapt to change. The residents of Franklin deserve a decision-making process that is inclusive, informed, and transparent, not one eclipsed by the haste of an untimely special election.

In addition to all of these facts, let's not forget that the state legislature is considering letting towns add or increase other taxes such as meal taxes, that also weigh on Franklin families -- and with the state now having its own serious budget problems, tax increases (such as sales tax) are not out of the question.

For more information visit: www.voteNOfranklin.com

Vote NO Franklin is a group of concerned citizens operating with administrative assistance from the Franklin RTC.