I encourage New London residents, taxpayers and business owners to think about the most practical realistic philosophy for the future of our city. Most people want the best benefits such as education, business development, real estate values, historical preservation, parks, a safe city and an acceptable tax rate. We must focus on these goals.

Last year New London voted for a tax increase on the promise budget problems would be resolved but now we face another large increase.

The challenge is to have a plan that will provide the best benefits while implementing a tax rate that will not be detrimental to the future of New London. The balancing of the budget cannot solely rely on taxing the residents and businesses and actually this policy will and has driven many away while discouraging homebuyers and business.

The careful review of the entire budget and acceptable tax rates for homeowners and businesses will be necessary to increase real estate values, attract homebuyers and business that will generate more revenue than raising taxes.

Michael Passero has the vision and experience to accomplish these goals and deserves our vote for mayor of New London.

William Louis Giustini

New London