Answers - Gary MacElhiney - Candidate for First Selectmen

Q1: Do you support the construction of a new high school as approved by the Board of Education in 2008? If yes, please describe what you would do in your role on the [B.O.E., B.O.S., B.O.F.] to support the passage of the referendum. If no, please describe what modifications need to be made to the current proposal in order for you to support it.

A1: I support the steps the BOE is currently taking toward a new high school. The BOE is moving toward a site-specific design, with the ability to realistically determine cost of construction and cost of operation, including maintenance. This will permit a decision based on fact.

The current proposal for a $500,000 - $750,000 referendum is crucial. I strongly support this approach and will work with the BOE to schedule and pass this referendum in order to continue moving forward.

Q2: What will you do in your role on the [B.O.E., B.O.S., B.O.F.] to ensure drafting of a town & education budget which meets the needs of the town and schools of Guilford AND is likely to be approved by the voters in a referendum?

A2: I will work diligently to craft as tight a town budget as possible, maintaining necessary services, while communicating frequently with the BOE/BOF to assemble a total budget package which can be approved.

Q3: As things currently stand, the town and education budgets are growing at a rate which exceeds the growth of the grand list. In your role on the [B.O.E., B.O.S., B.O.F.], what steps will you take to address this growing gap between budget expenditures and tax revenues?

A3: There are clearly two sides to the equation, raising revenues and controlling costs. As First Selectman, I will support continued Economic Development, find opportunities for additional revenues and work with our legislative representatives and the state to reform the property tax system.

On the expense side, I can provide a fresh look at all expense items, recognizing that many are fixed, contractual and absolutely necessary. I will work to reduce costs where possible, including medical benefits where an ability to participate in state programs can significantly reduce Guilford's cost. There are opportunities to find efficiencies by consolidating town functions, eliminating duplication and changing the way things are now done. Regionalization can spread costs, as well as allow some of these to be paid by government and private grants.