To the editor:

Author Matthew Hertenstein wrote a book named “The Tell”. In it he contends that little clues reveal big truths about who we are. 

John Sterling, renown announcer for the NY Yankees may have boldly proclaimed after our recent local elections, “….the democrats win, the democrats win, the democrats…" 

I congratulate each and every one of you. And now after victory, would you kindly tell us who you really are and what you really believe? How will you govern? Will you represent all of us? What does the annual mill rate really mean to each of you (if you know what that is)?

Campaign slogans such as “A head for business, A heart for community” and “I want Barrington to be affordable for everyone who wants to live, work and play here”, and “I’m for kids getting more sleep… research so states” are catchy but shallow. For Pete’s sake, Reagan, Obama, Clinton and Mackenzie Bezos would agree with all of that.

For more than 100 years, Barrington government, both School Committee and Town Council has been either entirely Republican or a mix of both parties. For the first time ever, Democrats own it all! I’m uncertain what this means other than the Committee on Appropriations, School Committee and Town Council must now produce! And produce what?

May I suggest the following? Annual budget increases of less than 2.5 percent; a freeze on any future affordable housing plans; a school budget that respects all taxpayers; and leadership that is transparent and collaborative. Statements such as “the new normal” for tax increases must disappear. Pay close attention to the recently developed budget forecast document. It provides a valuable baseline for future town expenditures.

“We have what it takes to take what you have” I hope will be a theme of the past. Unfortunately, there are ‘tells’ regarding current leadership in town that portends ever-higher tax increases. And this is why it’s difficult (although not impossible) for me to support democrat candidates. I’d encourage each of you to look to Mr. Brenner (former Town Council president) for some practical advice. He’s one democrat I did vote for!

Is it possible for this group to embrace the ideal of a “limited government” as envisioned by our founders?

That’s my hope.

Scott Fuller

Barrington