Town Issues
Fiscal responsibility is paramount as we look toward the future of Carlisle. We face numerous proposed projects that could potentially strain our budget and exceed our spending limits. While many surrounding towns including Concord grapple with financial challenges that have raised taxes over 10% with the possibility of them doubling to combat town debts, Carlisle still has the opportunity to thoughtfully plan for the next 5, 10, and even 20 years. It is essential that we prioritize critical town services and manage tax increases judiciously.
While I appreciate the good intentions behind the state's MBTA Communities Act, it has unfortunately posed significant challenges for Carlisle. Our town's rich legacy of land conservation is now at risk due to this mandate. It is imperative that we explore all possible avenues to address this issue while also preparing for the potential consequences should Carlisle find itself unable to comply. Together, we must ensure that our community's values and health are upheld during this process. My nightmare scenario is that the town picks a location, a developer swoops in to build all the units, the surrounding neighborhoods end up with dry wells, and the town ends up with a multitude of resident lawsuits. This isn’t even taking into account the strains on town resources and the school system. Additionally almost every high density housing development in town so far has had septic issues.
Much of Carlisle's infrastructure has faced longstanding neglect and requires our immediate attention. It is imperative that we approach these issues thoughtfully yet efficiently. First, let’s talk about our roads. Anyone who drives through town or visits the transfer station can attest to the unfortunate state of our streets. As taxpayers, residents deserve better than to navigate potholes and bumpy thoroughfares. Turning to our Police Department, it's clear that the current building is in dire need of upgrades. Fortunately, plans for renovations are already underway, which is a critical step in enhancing our community's safety and service. When it comes to the DPW buildings, the need for repairs or replacements cannot be overstated. However, the estimates we've received are alarmingly high. I believe that by fostering collaboration between the select board and DPW staff—without involving outside consultants—we can devise a cost-effective solution that meets our community's needs. Lastly, regarding the Fire Station, having served as a volunteer in our fire department and in another community with a greater number of calls, I have valuable insights on this matter. The decision to add a second ambulance has undoubtedly improved safety in Carlisle, however I feel that the number of fire apparatus exceeds what is necessary given our town’s fire incidents. Streamlining the number of fire vehicles could not only reduce our budget but also create spaces for essential upgrades without having to spend $15M+ for a new fire house. There are efficiencies to be found and we just need to be open to finding them.
Carlisle stands proud with an exceptional school that serves our children’s educational needs. However, it is imperative that we address the issue of funding. Our educational institutions should not be reliant on the generosity of parents to cover essential resources such as paper products. Furthermore, it is crucial that we invest adequately in our educators, equipping them with the necessary tools to foster a successful learning environment for our children. Together, let us advocate for the funding our schools deserve to ensure a brighter future for every student in our community.
