Putting Stratford on a New Path Toward Saving Money and Strengthening Community Bonds 

During this budget season, my Administration worked closely with the Town Council to identify savings, implement efficiencies, and mitigate the impact of an unprecedented State-mandated revaluation that, on average, increased property values by 80%. We also provided residents with consistent budget updates to demonstrate where the Town was, where we find ourselves, and where we hope to go next.

We are now at a pivotal moment in our town’s history. I believe we are at the beginning of a renaissance. 

As I look back on my many endeavors, there are things I have gotten lost in – gone down the rabbit hole trying to solve; and there are things that have made a real difference, things that really have had a lasting impact on people’s lives. 

Most of the changes we’re making in the budget, the trimming around the edges, while important, will not be remembered for more than a few days. However, there are elements that would bring transformative benefits to our community.

The first is putting Stratford on a new path toward saving money, rather than continuing to borrow. I have proposed that we put aside $2,000,000 to shore up our General Fund, which is now approximately $20 million, to build for the future. Our General Fund was at $25M one year ago. Getting Stratford on a sound fiscal foundation is the right thing to do and will be transformational for the Town in the long run.

The second element in the budget that would be transformational is a new position I proposed, which we’ve been calling the Town Welcoming Manager. When I knocked on over 5,000 doors during the campaign last year, it became abundantly clear to me how disconnected and isolated so much of our populace is. So many communities across our nation are polarized. No one benefits from polarization. It often leads to “othering,” whereas knowing our neighbors builds a stronger, more resilient community that benefits everyone through improved connection, safety, and security. The Town Welcoming Manager would help cut through the polarization and bring people together. In the past five years, we’ve had an influx of thousands of new residents. The Town Welcoming Manager would meet with newcomers upon arrival, share information, and help them connect with town resources and engage in community activities. Working to bring people together and strengthen bonds is critical. Knowing your neighbors creates a network for help during emergencies and builds connections and long-term relationships that offer endless health benefits. It makes Stratford a more friendly, desirable place to live.

This is not revolutionary; this used to be standard. I believe it is one of the missing ingredients to making our world civil again. It is a small investment with the potential for massive returns for our community.

These two items – a disciplined financial strategy and a Town Welcoming Manager – are potential game changers for Stratford. 

I ask you to please join me in urging the Town Council to support and keep these elements in the final budget. You can find your Town Council member’s contact information by visiting Town Council | Town of Stratford. You can also make your voice heard by providing public comment at one of two upcoming public forums. The first public forum will take place on Tuesday, May 5, at 5:00 pm in the Council Chambers at Town Hall, and the second will take place on Monday, May 11, at 6:30 pm in the Council Chambers. 

Thank you for your consideration and for your continued attention to the budget process. We need a final budget that best reflects the community’s needs and priorities. I hope you’ll share your input.

-Mayor David Chess