Message from Mayor Josh Losardo | February 10, 2023
With Super Bowl Sunday just two days away, don’t expect me to use this space to weigh in on my thoughts about the Eagles. After all, I am an elected official and football fans have long memories.
But what I can discuss (safely) is the development of the municipal budget for the upcoming year, which begins July 1.
Typically, the days and weeks following the Super Bowl is the time when Town Hall focuses on developing a responsible municipal budget for the mayor and council to approve. It is a time of the year when all of the municipal directors carefully examine their proposed expenditures and determine what they absolutely need for the upcoming budget year.
Over the past eight years, municipal taxes in Scotch Plains has been relatively flat. We are tremendously proud of that record, as we have developed a reputation for not spending a taxpayer penny if it is not absolutely needed. Independent credit agencies have also recognized our hard work, which is why we are one of only four towns in Union County that has earned a Aaa bond rating, the highest attainable.
Just as we all are experiencing tight personal budgets, costs to Scotch Plains have increased. We are facing stubborn inflation, as well as significantly higher costs for pensions, health insurance, public safety and fuel, making it increasingly more difficult to keep spending flat. Adding to the challenge is the fact the federal and state government is providing no additional aid for pandemic response.
We are spending wisely and only where needed. For example, to enhance leaf collection, we have hired an additional DPW worker and have provided additional equipment to help the department do its job more efficiently. Public safety is also important, which is why the Scotch Plains Police Department has more sworn officers than at any time in our town’s history.
As we plan for budget meetings, asking all of our directors to sharpen their pencils as much as possible, we also are keenly aware of the needs of our Recreation Commission and other organizations that comprise the heart and soul of our community.
We will be listening intently to any and all budget suggestions, as we create a fiscal ’24 plan that strikes a careful balance of being responsible to taxpayers, but also keeping Scotch Plains moving forward.
As always, I warmly welcome your comments.
