~ Letters-to-the-Editor ~

In opposition to Proposition 2 1/2 override

Dear Editor:

I am writing to express my strong opposition to Proposition 2 1/2 override that will be on the ballot on March 31.

I have owned a house in Malden for nearly 14 years and am proud to call Malden home. I work full time at a grocery store and live by myself. In order to make ends meet, I need to be frugal and budget my money carefully. As someone on the autism spectrum, I face a lot of challenges. But owning a home and being financially self-sufficient are important to me, so I have worked hard and made sacrifices in order to accomplish these goals.

With the prices of so many things going up, making ends meet is increasingly difficult for me and for other hardworking people. An increase in my property taxes is the last thing that I need. Personally, I will always prefer that government at all levels cut spending rather than raising taxes. No government program or service is more important to me than keeping as much of my own hard-earned money as possible. Just as I have had to make difficult decisions in order to cut back on my expenses and stay within my means, I think that the City of Malden should do the same, rather than asking hardworking people like me to contribute more.

I strongly urge voters to say NO to both override proposals.

Sincerely,

Marissa Babin

Highland Ave

Malden

Proposition 2½ Override Vote on March 31

To the Taxpayers of Malden

Do not be fooled by political threats about what will happen if Malden’s Proposition 2½ override fails on March 31. Before the Mayor and City Council talk about budget cuts or municipal layoffs, the City should first clean up its own financial mess, starting at the top.

Here is the reality: Malden has a spending problem and a hiring problem. Once again, the City is taking the easy way out by sticking residents with a tax override.

It is not bad enough that Malden taxpayers were hit with the “tiny trash barrels” and a $100-per-year fee. Now the City is coming back for more. That vote was pushed through with little notice, and I want to acknowledge Councilor Simonelli and Councilor Sica for standing up for constituents. Bravo.

Mr. Mayor, before March 31, you should sharpen your pencil with Mr. Hogan and find a better solution to Malden’s spending problem.

I also want residents to know that, based on a conversation I had with State Representative Donato, he does not support this override.

If passed, this override would mean an additional $400 to $600 tax increase on every Malden homeowner. That is absolutely appalling.

On March 31, Malden taxpayers have one clear message to send: Vote NO on Proposition 2½.

Signed,

Kevin Larson

63-year resident of our Beloved City of Malden