LtE: Why I Support Reading’s Override

For the past seven years, I’ve had the privilege of serving on Reading’s Finance Committee, including three years as Chair. That experience has given me a firsthand understanding of how our town manages its finances, and it is why I support the proposed Proposition 2½ override.

My support comes from years of asking difficult questions, challenging assumptions, and seeing firsthand the care with which our budgets are developed. Reading has consistently taken a conservative and disciplined approach to budgeting. I’ve consistently been impressed by the care and accountability our department heads bring to managing taxpayer dollars.

I’ve also seen the results of our investments. As a parent of one Reading graduate and another soon to graduate, I appreciate the value of our schools. Recent town presentations have highlighted improvements in student performance and attendance, even as other communities continue to face challenges. Our public safety departments remain desirable places to work, helping us attract and retain dedicated professionals. And having recently seen neighbors rely on our emergency services, I’ve been reminded just how important those investments are when they’re needed most.

I recognize that affordability is a genuine concern, particularly for residents on fixed or limited incomes. I don’t take that lightly. But I believe the service reductions that would be required without an override would be too detrimental to the community we’ve worked hard to build.

There’s a saying that resonates with me: “A society grows great when people plant trees in whose shade they will never sit.”

For me, that captures this decision. It’s not simply about what we receive today, but what we’re willing to preserve and invest in for those who follow us.

That’s why I’ll be voting in favor of the override.

Ed Ross
Kensington Ave
Finance Committee member (former chair)