Submitted by Monica Prihoda, Greenwich
To the Editor:
There’s been much written leading up to and since the Board of Estimate and Taxation (BET) decision allocating Greenwich finances for 2024.
The BET pushed back a year the critically needed funding to renovate Old Greenwich School, where sewage repeatedly floods the lower level and there is a serious lack of ADA compliance that has children on crutches hopping up dozens of stairs, being tutored by substitute teachers on the ground level or sent to a school they are not districted for that can better accommodate them.
Also, based on a questionable narrative that enrollment will continue to decline, the BET voted to slash the budget for a new Central Middle School that is urgently needed since the building was condemned last year. It has been shored up, but not on a permanent basis.
Greenwich Residents here’s the bottom line:
Nothing will change until you vote locally or, better yet run for local office – the Representative Town Meeting (RTM) in your district, Board of Estimate and Taxation (BET) AND the Board of Selectmen. The First Selectman – our Mayor – holds a lot decision power.
THEN you have a fighting chance to see the change you want to see. If you’re unhappy – do something! Words matter, yet action speaks louder than words. Be a civic model for your kids!
Mark – highlight – your calendars for November 7, 2023 Election Day! The Town of Greenwich website is chock full of information, or call.
As Mahatma Gandhi wisely said: “Be the change you want to see.”
By the way, early voting is on the horizon and in your favor.
I want to thank the BET for all their dedication and hard work – but we can do better.