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Renewal won’t increase taxes

DEAR EDITOR:

I write to you today with measured optimism. As we continue to navigate through the challenges that COVID-19 have brought, I am extremely proud of the way the city of Warren has responded. Even through these difficult times, we have stepped up to assure that essential services were not significantly interrupted. While the city has made adjustments, it was able to do so without significantly interrupting essential services and programs.

Early on, the city made tough decisions that reduced our expenses to absorb our revenue losses experienced due to COVID-19. These decisions allowed us to avoid offering volunteer furloughs to any of our safety forces. Throughout this pandemic, our fire department has maintained 24/7 coverage of all three stations, and our police department has remained at or near full staff. The city was also able to maintain a sizable road resurfacing program. Concerted efforts were made to insulate these programs, not only because they were pivotal in our fight against this virus, but because they remain vital to the advancement of our city.

We all acknowledge we cannot cut our way to prosperity, no differently than we can grow quickly enough to absorb the shortfalls that we have experienced. Therefore, we must continue to use fiscal responsibility while also fostering private-sector growth through the creation of a prosperous business environment.

On Nov. 3, I am asking you to help us continue to move forward by voting yes on the 0.5 percent income tax renewal. Once again, there is no additional cost to you, the citizen. This is only a renewal. The promises we made were promises that we kept. With your continued support, we can secure our future for the next generation.

WILLIAM D. FRANKLIN

Mayor of Warren

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