CINDY HARRIS
On January 8, it was reported by the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation that our city, like most in our state, is facing severe financial stress due to the cost of future retirement benefits. Michael Widmer, the group’s president, also implied that there will be little money available for future wage and benefit increases for our highly dedicated municipal workforce.
The average Westfield homeowner has experienced a 23 percent tax increase over the last five fiscal years. As I indicated repeatedly during my 2013 campaign, I intend to monitor municipal spending very closely. I will oppose any spending request which appears to be excessive.
I will do everything possible to maintain Community Development’s emphasis on the goal of bringing market rate housing to our city, especially where it involves the conversion of any city property to a residential use. Peter Miller, our Community Development Director, stated last fall that the median household income in our community is $54,000-$13,000 below Agawam’s $67,000. In addition, Moody’s, according to the Westfield News, expressed concerns about our “declining wealth” indicators during their last underwriting of our bond debt. Hopefully, the focus on market rate housing will be maintained during 2014, a non-election year.
I am convinced that your new city council consists of 13 individuals who intend to work together in an effort to maintain, and improve whenever possible, our great, livable small city.
Cindy Harris
At-large Councilor
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this column are those of the author and not the staff, editor, or publisher of the Westfield News.
