|
Welcome to the home page of the majority party in the Town of Gates!
The Town of Gates is truly a great place to live. We have a very diverse population, affordable housing, two great school districts, close proximity to the airport and every possible type of business within 10 miles of anyone’s home. Unfortunately, we also have one of the highest property tax rates for any town in the county. In 2010 our net tax rate in the county was second highest, $6.52/$1000 of assessment. In 2011, the town tax rate is projected to be $6.33/$1000 of assessment. If no other town increases their rate, we will still be in the top five. The question is, “Why?” Unfortunately, it is very difficult to answer, “Why?”. The budget that is presented to the public lacks detail as to how individual departments are run. Any program deficiency are hidden under gross expensed and revenue categories such as “Miscellaneous”. The town is also projected to be carrying forward over $4 million in surplus. Although, this is difficult to measure since the town budget seems to be missing certain items, such as a $1.2 million sum payment to cover the cost of building a privately owned building that will house the Gates Library in April 2011. If this is truly budgeted for 2010, then our surplus may only be $2.8 million, still a substantial amount. Today's economic challenges are an opportunity to redefine who we are as a community and to confirm what is essential and valued in our town government. Gates needs to continue to be an attractive destination for new residents and businesses. The Gates Democrats Committee invites all registered Democrats to join us for our meetings at 7:15 pm on the 2nd Thursday from February to December at the Hidden Valley Clubhouse off Pixley Road. Please join your voice to our collective call for responsive, open government that enhances our future and protects the qualities that makes Gates a great place to live. |
||
| Gates 2011 Budget | Gates 2010 Audit | |