To the Editor:
(Brookfield, NY – Oct. 2013) If it’s true that local government is more financially responsible than federal government, it’s because local leaders are more easily held accountable. In view of our current financial situation, it’s time we do so.
Most recently, it came out at Brookfield’s October board meeting that Madison County has consumed $17,000,000.00 of its reserve fund balance and may need to override the New York State property tax cap to balance next year’s budget. In Brookfield, our recent tax increases have been unable to keep pace with expenditures, resulting in last year’s deficit. The experienced, professional politicians we’ve placed in office have developed a government which is simply unsustainable.
Rather than continuing to allow ever-rising government costs to create deficits and increased indebtedness, let’s scale back the growth of government. A fresh candidate who has demonstrated proficiency in accounting, finance, and understanding the economic effects of government policy can best accomplish this.
Additionally, we need leaders who have worked to limit the size and scope of government consistently, not just when buttering up voters. It is one thing when taxes increase in order to maintain roads. It is quite another when the government expands in order to reduce our freedoms through zoning and the comprehensive plan. Brookfield is a great place, not because of the government, but rather because of the hard-working, freedom-loving Americans who call these hills and valleys home.
Many of us moved here, not to live under magnanimous, omniscient government, but rather because we appreciate being able to live off the beaten path and enjoy the freedoms this country is all about. Given the challenges ahead, we need a representative working with our County and State who understands this and believes in preserving those freedoms no matter which way the political wind is blowing.
Therefore, I’m asking for your vote November 5th. My priorities as supervisor are simple: running tight-fisted town and county budgets, making sure our roads are well-maintained, dealing wisely with the State government, and preserving freedom. Any questions, email jdhaar@utica.edu or call (315)855-4465. I’ve been pleased to meet many of you, and I know that my position of limited, focused government is well-known and widely-supported. Thank you very much.
Joshua Haar
Liberty Party Candidate for Supervisor
Brookfield