Thursday, October 23, 2008

South Hadley Selectboard votes to oppose Question One

At its October 21 meeting, the South Hadley Selectboard voted to oppose Question One.

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."
###

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Why does NJ Heim of S. Hadley oppose Question 1?

I sincerely hope people see the multitude of problems ballot question one (1) could cause, if people vote yes.

I lived in California when a similar choice was on the ballot. People voted for it, and it went through. As a result, libraries were only open 1/2 day per week, access to parks was closed because they could not be maintained, and a plethora of other services simply went away - until it could be put back on the ballot, and people could vote to reinstate those services (and be taxed for them, of course). Anyone who thinks municipalities tax individuals so they can have a budget surplus must be from another planet... tax money supports services everyone uses, whether they realize it or not.
-NJ Heim

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Why would people vote no on this question

I am voting no because it would affect our schools, our libraries, and all the services your town now provides, not to mention your property taxes.

Bill Foley says "No" to Question One

Please think of the options before voting on this question. Without a state income tax the burden will fall on the homeowner. I strongly support the "VOTE NO" campaign.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Scary to Imagine Question One Winning

I am firmly against Question One for so many reasons: it would adversely affect budgets of social service programs, schools, libraries, public works, services for the elderly and so much more. I've heard that across the state the vote may be very close on this issue, so it's important that everyone comes out to vote against Question One on Nov. 4.