Martin on park lands and fiscal responsibilities

To the editor: During this year’s election campaign I have focused on the distinction between perception and fact. The Draft Master Plan contains a wealth of factual information and is available in hard copy at municipal offices and the Town Web site www.monroeny.org. Looking at the building in our region, one might conclude that the Town Outside the Villages will be destroyed. A look at the map published in the Facts About Monroe in the Oct. 21st issue of The Photo News shows the lands in the Town OV that are open space or parkland. These properties are documented in the Draft Master Plan. Councilman Jim Rogers narrates a video tour of the Town-owned land on Channel 22. On Saturday, Oct. 29, a small group of residents toured a fraction of these properties to review potential park sites. The facts are clear: More than 20 percent of the Town OV will remain as open space or parkland. Recent land purchases by the town were possible because there were willing sellers and the town could afford the acquisition. Prudent land purchases exemplify the town board’s fiscal policy “pay as you go and avoid long-term debt”. It is easy for municipalities to borrow money. It is not easy to craft fiscally sound policies avoiding debt while keeping taxes stable. It is a major accomplishment for the town board to have expanded services and purchased land while maintaining a stable tax rate. We have expanded Dial-A-Bus routes. We have built and paid for a Senior Center. We have addressed Code Enforcement. We have increased funding of Smith’s Clove Park. We have funded daytime EMTs. We have provided recreational boating on Round Lake. We have purchased parkland. We have started construction of a New Town Park. We have enhanced our quality of life. For the last 16 years, I have proposed budget resolutions to keep town taxes affordable. The town board has accepted my proposals and all residents have benefited from the town board’s decisions. I am very proud of my efforts and contributions to the town. With your support on Nov. 8, I will continue to provide fiscally sound leadership for our community. Peter J. Martin, Ph.D. Councilman, Town of Monroe