December 6, 2012
State Budget Deficit
Once again, the state has found itself facing a budget deficit in the current fiscal year along with the next fiscal year. Although the number fluctuates, the deficits are estimated to exceed $350 million dollars this year and $1.1 billion next year. This is in spite of the no-layoff concession deals with most state unions and a very large tax increase.
Gov. Malloy has submitted his first round of cuts for the current year for some of the deficit. The General Assembly will have to make further cuts to balance the budget. All sources have been telling towns that there will be no cuts in municipal aid for our current budget.
However, this guarantee disappears for the 2013-14 fiscal year state budget. State officials have repeatedly stated that with a $1.1 billion deficit, everything is on the table. The state has few options to deal with this large deficit. Layoffs are not a viable option as Gov. Malloy made a no-layoff deal with most union employees. Tax increases are also a bad choice as residents and employers are already struggling to make ends meet.
State aid to municipalities is the area that myself and other First Selectmen have great concerns over. Currently, Colchester receives nearly $15 million dollars in state aid. The vast majority of that aid is for education. Aid to towns has been flat or slightly declining for years now. Any further reductions could be devastating and force us to make difficult choices between higher taxes, or reduced services.
Through the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities, we are constantly reminding members of the General Assembly that any reduction in state aid equals an increase in property taxes or cuts in services. My hope is that Hartford will not punish towns for the failure of the state to pass and maintain a balanced budget.
Thoughts With Service Members and Families
Organizations such as Parents of Soldiers Together (POST) and the Yellow Ribbon Committee have been bringing more attention to our brave men and women serving our nation. As we continue in the holiday season, please keep these individuals and their families in your thoughts.
Last week, I was able to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony for a new simulator at the Groton submarine base. It’s always remarkable to see the dedication, professionalism, and enthusiasm of our military personnel. They take great pride in their mission and accept the long separations from home and family.
On the way back to the parking lot, State Representative-elect Melissa Ziobron and myself shared a van driven by a young sailor. He told us he was from Washington state and was two years into a six year enlistment. Occasionally, the scenery in Connecticut reminded him of his home state and he admitted being homesick at times. We thanked him for his service and I was once again reminded what our military sacrifices for our safety.
- Gregg Schuster
First Selectman
Previous Selectman Notes can be viewed at
| 