November 17, 2005

MEMO TO ESPOSITO: BE OPEN AND HONEST
By Christine Carrie Fien / cfien@mpnewspapers.com

To the editor:

At the Nov. 9 town of Gates budget hearing, Mr. Esposito admitted that certain items pertained to the highway department were budgeted lower than 2005. His reason was the fact of the yet-to-be contract with the town of Greece. He also said there is no line expense for this.

So we already have a budget that is inaccurate. How many other items are in this budget are inaccurate? With the town board unanimously passing this budget, will we need to borrow again in 2006? Mr. Esposito says he will not. Let's hold him to it; no excuses.

As for openness in government. Numerous times he was asked about line items on the budget. Numerous times he said to file a Freedom of Information request. This is our money and we deserve the right to know how and where it is spent.

I would also like to congratulate Supervisor Esposito for his reelection. I tried to in person, but was rudely denied. I am not a sore loser. The great people of Gates need openness, honestly and respect from our elected officials.

Mark McIntee/Gates