While I was somewhat disappointed in Tuesday’s results, it was not totally unexpected.  Running as an independent in Woodstock is more than a bit of an uphill battle but it was encouraging to see that a number of people have been paying attention, reading what has been written and listening to what has been said about Woodstock’s financial management, and checking for themselves.   We, collectively, certainly got their attention.  When the republicans endorse a democrat to block you, you know you’ve hit a nerve.  We made‘em sweat.

This coming year is going to see some real challenges; from a $2.5 million dollar bonding issue that will further pressure town finances, to likely drops in revenue from the net grand list and state revenues that will put more pressure on financial reserves and/or for tax increases to make up the difference.  It will be interesting.

A big thanks to all who have supported and encouraged me though this campaign and particularly those who wrote letters, put up signs, and, of course, came out and voted.  I hope that you all will continue to follow the actions of the BOF and BOS as they try to address (and try to bury) the issues that have been raised regarding Prop 46 and the spending policies of all the boards.  It’s your money.  If you don’t care, or don’t pay attention, you can be assured they will spend it faster than you can make it – it’s the nature of the beast. 

Dave Richardson