Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Board divided on Question 1 recommendation

Board divided on Question 1 recommendation
By STEPHEN C. HILL
Staff Writer

Saturday, October 25, 2008
While no members of the Board of Selectmen expressed support for the Nov. 4
ballot Question 1, which seeks to eliminate the state income tax, the board
was split when it came time to take a stand on the issue.

The board voted three to two to express its opposition to Question 1, with
Chairwoman Carlene Hamlin and Greg Sheehan dissenting.

Hamlin said the board has in the past refrained from voting on ballot
questions and would be setting a precedent or policy if a vote were taken on
this measure. Selectman John Hine said taking a position on ballot questions
can be done on a case by case basis and Robert Judge and Marilyn Ishler
spoke against Question 1.

"I think at this time it's important for the community to know we've looked
into this and that we think it would be bad for the community," said Ishler.
"The cuts are going to be so great that it will do damage to our town."

Judge said the hard numbers are unknown but a significant reduction in the
town's assistance from the state should be expected if the question passes
and it "would be terrible for the town of South Hadley."
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