From the Newtown Bee, 3/7/2025
“Let The Budget Process Work“

To the Editor:

Newtown has a very strong budget process. It starts with the First Selectman and the Chair of the Board of Education submitting a first draft to the Board of Selectmen. The Selectmen then make approved changes, often so the Board of Finance and Legislative Council can further discuss. These two boards can’t increase either budget, only make cuts.

The draft budget then goes to the Board of Finance and then the Legislative Council to do detailed reviews of the budget, especially any increases and what the benefits are. This is an exhausting review, which ends with the Legislative Council agreeing to send the budget to Referendum so the taxpayers can weigh in, yes or no. This budget will look very different from the initial budget presented for consideration and review by the Board of Selectmen.

Key parts of this process are community forums and public hearings to seek residents’ feedback. Keep an eye out for scheduled events. This is a great time to make your thoughts known and to learn more about the budget as it moves through the process. The ultimate approved budget will allow the town to run for the coming year. It’s one of your most important civic responsibilities.

So please follow the process, and please vote at the referendum in April.

Bruce Walczak
Newtown