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Dear Editor:
We are all committed to supporting the Town of Reading and ensuring the best possible services for all its residents. That’s why I support the Proposition 2 1/2 override on the November 3 ballot.
As Reading’s state senator, I have seen that the Town is a responsible steward of tax dollars, and that staff work to stretch the budget by looking for grants and state aid wherever possible. Reading’s previous override in 2018 lasted years longer than the predicted three to five years, thanks to sound fiscal management by Town staff.
Other towns in my district have faced recent overrides. Stoneham and Melrose each passed one last year, and Malden held a vote on one as well that unfortunately failed by just over 100 votes. Most municipalities face periodic overrides, as costs increase more than the 2.5% threshold allowed each year for increases in property tax revenues collected. At the state level, I have always prioritized local aid and Chapter 70 school funding, but unfortunately this isn’t enough to keep up with the growth in unavoidable costs facing the Town, especially health insurance. Without the additional funds from this override, the Town will see some difficult and painful cuts across all departments.
While overrides are never popular, I believe this initiative is vital in order to preserve school quality and key town services for all the residents of Reading.
State Senator Jason Lewis
