It was encouraging to watch Stonington voters approve the recent school bonding initiative overwhelmingly. On Tuesday, the budget for fiscal year 2015-16 goes before the voters. We urge approval. It is an opportunity for voters to again make a statement that encourages continued progress. What has in the past been a contentious budget process now sees professionalism, vision, collaboration and innovation. In formulating this budget, the boards of finance, education and selectmen have united, compromised, and worked together for the best long-term interests of the town.

With approval of the school project, Stonington took steps to address infrastructure needs. What career educators, staff and many community members had described as “tired” facilities are soon to be renovated and serve our youth for the next 50-plus years. Once complete, our schools will be prepared to meet the diverse needs of our students today and tomorrow.

Now it is time for further action by passing a budget carefully crafted to meet myriad town needs. It is a budget with a minimal increase but a maximal impact through all services. Innovative approaches such as “master leasing” have been put into place that allow capital expenditures to be maximized, and stretches the taxpayer dollar as much as possible. Passing this budget on top of passing the school improvement bonding initiative last month puts our schools on an equal footing regionally. Our schools have strong leadership, top notch faculty and quality curriculum. This budget moves our district forward and allows us to continue upgrading our technology, replacing out-dated text books and offering challenging courses for our students.

This budget meets the needs of our police, Highway Department, our seniors and the most vulnerable. Recreational needs are addressed, libraries funded and assistance provided for the many civic entities in their mission to meet the needs of Stonington residents.

We see a new beginning awakening in Stonington. Our town is a safe community to live in and gives a quality of life few others can boast of. Stonington should take pride in this budget and its Board of Finance for exercising fiduciary responsibility while compromising.

Our taxes are low in comparison to surrounding towns, while supporting quality services and a quality education. Both of us are “Stonington Proud.” It is an honor and privilege to serve this special community. Please vote “yes” on Tuesday.

Frank Todisco is a chairman of the Stonington Board of Education and Michael Spellman a selectman.