Submitted by Paul Kretschmann, Greenwich
On November 4, Greenwich voters will decide who controls the Board of Estimate and Taxation (BET), the body that manages our town’s $520 million budget. This decision affects every part of our lives — from schools and public safety to infrastructure and taxes. I urge my neighbors to vote for the full slate of six Democrats for the BET.
For nearly a century, Republicans have held the BET’s tie-breaking vote, and in recent years they’ve used it to push through shortsighted cuts that ignore both facts and community input. This has meant higher long-term costs and unnecessary chaos — including a surprise, last-minute $4 million school budget cut last year that forced teacher layoffs, larger class sizes, and earlier start times.
Democrats offer a better way. Their candidates bring unmatched experience in finance, law, and public service — with résumés that include leadership at Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and JP Morgan, as well as years of civic involvement right here in Greenwich. They are committed to:
• Saving taxpayers money through rigorous, data-driven budgeting and smart investments that avoid waste and delays.
• Securing our future by properly funding schools, supporting educators, and protecting home values.
• Improving our community with investments in safety, infrastructure, traffic management and services for seniors.
When Democrats last led the BET in 2018, tax increases were lower than under Republicans, averaging just 1.4%. Greenwich Democrats have shown they can deliver responsible budgets, low taxes, and better results for our town.
Greenwich deserves leaders who plan ahead, listen to residents, and get things done. Let’s give them the chance. Please join me in voting for all six Democrats for the BET on Row A this November.