Ellison Wants to Inflict Pain
I read Ms Ellison’s comments on the lifeguards at the Town beach (6/29/23 issue).
First, they did not all quit, three are still working. Secondly, the failure of the Prop 2 1/2 override has nothing to do with paying the lifeguards. They are paid through the user fees paid by customers who use the beach (beach stickers and parking fees).*
This is Ms Ellison trying to inflict financial pain across the Town anyway she can because the Prop 2 1/2 override did not pass. This way in 2024 or 2025 when it comes up again it will pass.
Ms Ellison is charged with running the Town and its finances. So why in July 2022 and 2023 she did not suggest to pause for a year any road work or capital expenditures to balance the budget. Secondly, why not manage non essential employees to rolling 32 hour work weeks to lesson the financial short falls. Third, for essential employees put a hold on all overtime.
Just a few thoughts what private businesses do every day when things get tough. They MANAGE their resources from A-Z and expect their fellow managers of departments to do the same.
I will end with this thought. If you can not manage the money you have now why in God’s name would you expect the voters of Fairhaven to give you more!!!!
Steve Riley, Fairhaven
*The fees go into the general fund and are not designated for a specific purpose.
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Click here to download the 7/20/23 issue:07-20-23 FireSafety
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