WHAT THE BURRILLVILLE DEMOCRATIC PARTY STANDS FOR.....

 

OPEN AND TRANSPARENT GOVERNMENT

Issues and courses of action need to be revealed in advance, publicized, and debated prior to adoption. The public's right to know and respond will not be infringed. Open forums and Meet the officials question and answer sessions are excellent means to retain citizen trust.

 CAREFUL FISCAL RESTRAINT

Spending will be prioritized to essential services and unbudgeted items will receive careful scrutiny prior to adoption. Cost savings and long term investments for the future will be carefully examined.

Town officials will be encouraged to hold the line on property tax rates. And seniors will continue to receive tax exemptions . We will work with our Pascoag Utility to keep water and power rates as affordable as possible. Annual independent audits applicable to each fiscal department will specify accrued  unfunded liabilities and strategies to resolve them which will enable greater fiscal integrity.

 PRESERVATION OF OUR RURAL CHARACTER

Numerous past studies clearly indicate that Burrillville's citizens want the town to retain its rural roots.

Every effort will be made to enhance and retain the town's rural character. Open space, farmland, clean lakes and waterways will be encouraged, protected and expanded  within sound and comprehensive planning. Space set aside for industrial growth will continue to be a priority and vigorously marketed.

As he economy improves, our advantages of land, water, schools, highway proximity, and quality of life will be advertised.

 COMMITMENT TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Changes in the housing and mortgage industries have left many young families, senior citizens, and underemployed to lack decent housing. Democrats will work to continue the recent gains made and increase opportunities for affordable housing for all eligible citizens.

 COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION

Democrats will insist on a state education aid formula that is equitable and  cognizant of special student needs. We will support and encourage our school district to maximize the potential and expertise of its personnel and resources to achieve the best possible education consistent with the capability of the  town tax base.  All involved elected officials should collaborate to plan budget and share resources.

 CONTINUE TO ADAPT AND IMPROVE THE TOWN CHARTER.

The charter as a guide for policy and procedures continually requires review to remain relevant to the needs of a vibrant town in an ever changing social and economic milieu.

 RECOMMEND AND ENDORSE CANDIDATES

Public office is a public trust and an honor granted. The democratic party will endorse only those candidates who have demonstrated honesty, and integrity and are best able to serve the public interest.

Our party is committed to restore  and maintain public trust in our public servants.

 ADVOCATE FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE

Democrats will protect and advocate for the rights and health of the elderly, the disadvantaged, the disabled, and and minorities. We remain committed to the ideal that all citizens should have the equal opportunity for a better life regardless of race, sex, religion, age, creed, economic status, country of origin, or philosophic persuasion. We further recognize that the health of our community and nation rests on the values of strong families, the protection of children, and access to affordable health care.