I think that the Westport Select Board has a serious challenge before it. The board needs to publicly address the effect of the failure of the override last year. Both the board and the private citizens'7 Fiscal Committee said we were in structural deficit which means we either raise taxes or cut services. Fifteen percent of the town, a majority of those voting, said we should cut services. While I voted in favor of the override, the will of the majority who voted, must be honored. The board should have a public meeting where it lays out the options for services that may be cut over the next few years to preserve the current tax rate. Let people voice their views on which services to cut. Are we really ready to cut the Council on Aging, which will be needed by a growing number of residents? The board should also consider ways to encourage people to vote. Seventy-three percent of eligible voters failed to cast a ballot.

A particular point that concerns me is that the budget for the past few years does not include funding for a finance director, a person who could help balance the desire for services with an equal desire for a minimal tax increase. The failure to include such a position is a startling example of pennywise and pound foolish.

While I will criticize town officials when I think it appropriate, I will do so in a civil manner and with gratitude for their willingness to serve the town on a volunteer basis.

Robert White

Westport