Based on 19 years of experience on Groton Town Council and as chairman of the previous Charter Revision Commission, I will be voting against the proposed new revision. This proposal:

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[naviga:li]Eliminates the RTM which represents both parties in each voting district. RTM is the sole “check and balance” on the council: can restore council cuts to manager’s budget, veto proposed ordinances and initiate legislation.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Makes council subject to Connecticut General Statutes’ minority representation limitations, which would limit each party to six candidates for council vice nine. Three of current council would not have been seated under these rules.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Establishes Board of Finance, but strictly for show. Can only make recommendations; has no teeth.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Establishes automatic budget referendum. No limit on minimum number of voters to initiate or pass/fail. Neighboring communities have seen as many as five referenda and have been decided by turnouts as low as 7 percent of registered voters. This is the tail wagging the dog.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Many voters will not make the effort necessary to understand a complex budget. Their votes then are based on gut feelings. Not a good way to run a town.[/naviga:li]

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I strongly recommend voting against the proposed charter revision.

Mick O'Beirne

Mystic