Two Foran High Students Die In Gulf Street Accident

Two people died Sunday afternoon after the car they were traveling in struck a telephone pole along Gulf Beach on Gulf Street.

Half of the car ended up on one side of the pole and the other half of the car on the other side of the pole after the accident that occurred shortly before 4 p.m. just across from the beach's fishing pier.

Police investigators were on the scene for hours and had the road blocked off for about a quarter mile from the entrance to the beach parking lot.

CONTINUE READING Kate Ramunni's Story CLICK HERE

Milford's Mayor Richetelli Explains KRIT

City Attorney Specializing In Land Use Law Fired

The New Haven Register and the CT Post each are reporting that that a Richetelli aid fired a city attorney. "Lisa DiLullo, the aide to Mayor James L. Richetelli Jr., handed Anger two cardboard boxes at the end of the workday Wednesday and told her to gather her things and leave."

The Mayor confirmed that Anger "no longer works for the city." Speculation on why she was fired is running rampant. Some believe her firing has to do with the formation of a city union, other speculators have argued that her firing is a result of ongoing issues in the Building Department, and Land use issues.

Anger has not spoken about her termination on advice from her legal counsel. While no lawsuit has been officially filed challenging her termination one may be in the works in the not so distant future.

Here We Snow Again

Well the weather man said nothing to worry about it was all going to be just rain.... Well lets not get upset with the false prophesies of those who try to predict the future they do the best the can and besides they were somewhat correct because it rained all day yesterday.

The new forecast is snow until midnight on Sunday, and for those who are thinking you would rather be in Florida, well mom called this morning from Orlando and said its about 45% there this morning.

Looks like we all have to tough it out, get the snow shovel and wait a few more weeks or perhaps a month or so until Spring arrives. The photo is from my office, taken this morning at 10:30A.M. As you can see the roads are covered in snow, but mostly clear and not very slippery.

The kids are enjoying yet another day off from school, and I am having a slow and yet productive day at work.

Truck Rolls Over And Knocks Out Wires At Exit 40

When city firefighters arrived at the Exit 40 off ramp on the northbound side of Interstate 95 early Wednesday, they found an overturned tractor-trailer that had taken down a utility pole, resulting in a web of live wires between them and the trapped victim.

Firefighters first believed two people were in the truck, but live wires meant they would have to risk their lives to get to it, said Fire Capt. Chris Zak.

TO CONTINUE READING TINLEY MCREADY STORY CLICK HERE

When Government Does Not Work

The current administration has engaged in a "faux pas" style of leadership that dare not challenge the worst attributes of employee abuses. Starting with the mayor who last year took 28 days off from work without telling anyone.

It should be no surprise that when city employees go wild, the boss who set the standard is having a hard time holding people accountable. The policy to fixing our problems in government appears to be one where we expand it and then outsource it.

Last fall when the building department failed to deliver service on its five permits each day, the current administration hired a $100,000.00 per year customer service representative aka Land Use Czar. To add insult to injury he paid an expert 50,000.00 for a report (AKA The KRIT). No one was fired, the building department budget was increased double digits to nearly $900,000.00 per year all for the sake of rewarding the slovenly and outrageous behavior of a disgraceful department riddled with excuses for why they cannot perform.

When the tax collector failed to their job in collecting business taxes, the current administration again gave away the city's money to a private corporation to do the job of the tax collector. We pay that department, and its associated employees, to do the job of collecting taxes. Yet again, of the estimated $560,000.00 that is being collected by this corporation the city will be giving away $110,000.00 of it as a corporate commission.

When the school Superintendent gets arrested, no the Mayor cannot just demand he "resign," "quit," or "stop abusing the school board." He instead stays silent as he is offered $125,000.00 for allegedly sexually abusing his employees.

One must sit back in awe, and wonder why the current administration finds it easier to raise our taxes, oppose the Jonathan Law addition, and hold the taxpayers of this city accountable for the failures of the local bureacracy. Part of being the Mayor in this city, is holding city employees accountable and demanding that they not use the city as their personal "piggy bank."

While many are struggling, and having a hard time finding good work, the citizens of milford who are also to blame are enabling this very tyrannical behaviour by chosing to not get involved. The old addage of "oh my family does not discuss religion or politics" is getting old.

There is no greater Irony and comeuppance than watching those very people who believe such ignorance pack up their foreclosed house and then go cry on the shoulder of their child molesting priest.

You get the government you "pay attention to" not the one that is "advertising in your mailbox." The sooner you start to get involved in our community, the sooner you can get the thieves out of your checking accounts.

Independents in Milford Establish a Town Committee.

On February 22, 2010 a group of local Milford residents met to discuss the likely hood of establishing an Independent Town Committee. The group heard discussions from Mike Telesca the agent of the State Independent Party and the thoughts of many local residents.

Those who attended the meeting were somber, and humble, but courageous enough to face the challenging odds of an “underdog party getting off the ground.” In a unanimous vote all 20 attendees voted to establish a third party in Milford. This new party, unlike its MIP predecessor, will follow the same laws as the two other major parties.

The Independent Party of Milford has consolidated its membership from the former MIP and the Independent Party. This new party is a larger more organized and dynamic group of passionate individuals.

The new Independent town Committee wasted no time and elected a full slate of officers. The Chairman elect Rocco Frank Jr. was nominated by the committee members. Also nominated were Steven Borer as Vice Chairman, John Grant as Treasurer, and Todd Casey as Secretary.

All the new officers were formerly candidates of the independent party and Milford Independent Party stemming back to 2008.

Rocco Frank the newly elected chairman said that the new organization “will focus on the principles of fair and honest government, as it stands rampant greed and paid politicians are abusing the taxpayer’s pocket books in their favor.” Frank feels that Democrats and Republicans are a disappointment, and the party is a “direct response to a growing number of disenfranchised voters who feel betrayed by Milford’s two party systems.”

The independent party will adopt a conservative platform aimed at eliminating government waste, and most importantly not allowing greed and avarice to result in teacher layoff’s because city jobs were “bonused, stipended, and raised away.”

Frank also challenged Independent party critics, who called the Independents “redundant and lacking in a platform.” Frank said “that there is a clear disconnect with the people, and a contagious epiphany is threatening to expose the tandem tax and spend leadership that has Milford Democrats and Republicans defecting from both parties.

Frank said that he will “keep the Independent party a safe place for good, honest and sincere community leaders to challenge the political quandaries lurking in our city.”

The Milford Independents are expected to begin, voting on and endorsing candidates in the coming weeks and are eagerly preparing for the coming challenges.

Milford Independents Going Separate Ways

The Milford Independent Party, which ran a slate of candidates in local elections last fall, is splitting in two, with neither of the new groups apparently keeping the party's name.

Many of the Independent candidates, including Rocco Frank, who ran for a Board of Education seat, and Steve Borer, who was an aldermanic candidate, are seeking to affiliate with the state Independent Party. That group will hold a nominating convention at 7 p.m. Monday at the Stonebridge Restaurant on Daniel Street. Elections will be held for seats on the new party's town committee, overseen by Michael Telesca, the state party chairman.

Click here to Continue Reading Frank Juliano Story

Meeting Reminder For Independents

Dear Friends,

Milford Independents will be meeting to form a Party tomorrow at 7:00 P.m. at Stonebridge Restauraunt in Milford. 2/22/10

For those attending from out of town the address is 50 Daniel Street Milford, CT 06460. Their telephone number is (203) 874-7947.

All are welcome, party enrollment is available on-site and some prominent surprise visitors may be in attendance.

Bring your friends, bring your ideas, and most of all bring your enthusiasm for fair and honest government in Milford.

For questions or additional information I can be reached at (203) 247 - 4357.

Sincerely,

Rocco J. Frank Jr.

Milford Real Estate Report

The following assessment is from the real estate experts at Trulia. Trulia is a market forecaster, and analyst site that specialized in providing data to people interested in real estate trends.

One important item to note is that the first time home buyer credit has skewed the average selling prices of local homes to the negative side. The Federal program offers an incentive to buy lower cost qualifying homes.

This is their current assessment for Milford.

"Average price per square foot for Milford CT was $194, a decrease of 14.5% compared to the same period last year. The median sales price for homes in Milford CT for Nov 09 to Jan 10 was $240,000 based on 96 home sales. Compared to the same period one year ago, the median home sales price decreased 12.2%, or $33,500, and the number of home sales increased 15.7%.

There are currently 374 resale and new homes in Milford on Trulia, including 29 open houses, as well as 28 homes in the pre-foreclosure, auction, or bank-owned stages of the foreclosure process. The average listing price for homes for sale in Milford CT was $414,721 for the week ending Feb 17, which represents an increase of 1.2%, or $4,942, compared to the prior week. Popular neighborhoods in Milford include Post Road North and , with average listing prices of $346,394 and $414,721."

Source is www.trulia.com

Milford Residents, And State, Victims Of Double Digit Health Insurance Increases

Connecticut figured prominently in this report released Thursday by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It was one of four states where insurance companies requested and received double digit increases in health insurance rates last year.

While officials in President Barack Obama’s administration seemed poised to use the report to jumpstart its stalled health care reform proposals, Connecticut officials used it to promote legislation that will require the Insurance Department to hold public hearings and notify consumers about proposed rate increases.

CONTINUE READING CHRISTINE STEWARTS STORY BY CLICKING HERE

Independents Formalize Party Structure

The Milford Independent Party is planning to create a more formal organizational structure, which leaders hope will put them on an equal playing field with Republicans and Democrats.

At a meeting Monday, the party will form a town committee, adopt bylaws, elect officers and attempt to recruit a full slate of candidates for state and local elections. Party members will meet at 7 p.m. at Stonebridge Restaurant on Daniel Street. The event is open to the public.

“The Independent Party platform is really simple,” organizer Rocco Frank said recently. “It’s about putting people first.”

TO CONTINUE READING CHRIS RHATIGAN STORY CLICK HERE

Some Comments On Political Races

Today I took some time to contemplate on whether or not I wanted to reveal some of my most important tools in politics, and for those who do not know me I am a local business owner here in Milford with a penchant for local and state issues. I am also one of the key architects of the local and state Independent Party.

The reason for the revelation of one my most trusted tools, is due to the constant chatter I hear about who has a chance to win "this race" and "that race." While I sit back in amusement, I always turn to the single thing that has never let me down, the very tools of science.

While I will not talk about what I know locally, I will talk about the mathematics of outcomes itself. This science is known to the Political Science community as Game Theory. Game Theory was developed by Dr. Mesquite of New York University some years ago and uses an elaborate mathematical theory with human beings as variables.

The reason we know that Game Theory works, is because after the early results were published by Dr. Mesquite he got a visit from our friends at the Central Intelligence Agency. A few short years ago they declassified their results, and impressively "Game Theory" accurately predicted the outcome of elections 91% of the time.

The equation is arcane, and for some time esoteric and limited only to those trained in its use. While I will not subject myself to a steady stream of controversy and hate mail by declaring what I know, I will mention that there is more hype than reality in the deluge of propaganda out there in Milford.

Should any of you wish to really know what is going on and what is going to happen in the upcoming elections all I will say is that there are going to be some surprises come November. For now, and without teaching you all of the applications of a complex scientific formula, I will instead ask that you follow Dr. Mesquite and listen to his lectures for a clearer picture of our future.

The video below is on his lecture revealing his work on the Iranian threat. Watch it and follow his work intently. You will discover that in a brief period of time you will know what to be concerned about, and what not to be concerned about. You will also have a strong idea on what the future will bring to you and your family, and if anyone has any questions always feel free to e-mail me at frank@mycomputerfox.com I am always happy to help.

Baby Seal Spotted In Milford

An unexpected visitor “hauled out” on a Woodmont beach Monday, drawing a crowd of onlookers.

A baby gray seal sunning itself on the rocks off Beach Avenue first caught the eye of a resident early Monday morning, leading to a steady stream of families gathering to check out the pup.

TO CONTINUE READING JAMES TINLEY'S STORY CLICK HERE

Milford's New Boardwalk Promises Not To Plow The Plovers

Milford State Rep. Barbara Lambert announced in her latest press release that work on the 1.6 million dollar boardwalk is set to begin. Many are already crying foul, complaining that this is yet another boondoggle of a project that is sending Milford "to the birds."

Environmentalists at the Audobon Society are concerned that if migrating Piping Plovers return to Milford, the boardwalk may plow through their habitat and damage their nests.

Lambert has indicated that should the plovers return, the builders have instructions to take the animals into consideration. She indicated that there is a "plan" in place not to harm the birds.

While some have called the belabored boardwalk a poorly timed project, the Mayor, former rep Jim Amann and other advocates have called the project necessary if Milford is to boost local commerce.

Property owners on the waterfront have expressed additional concern over increased crime and the noise of an ongoing construction project. Lambert indicated that the noise would be confined to business hours only but made no comment on the propensity for increased crime.

Last election the Republicans held a solitaire fundraiser to raise funds for a security problem that would address the issue of crime in that area of Milford. There has been no comment as of yet as to wether or not they intend to install a security camera.

Polanski Extorts City And Refuses To Resign

After having agreed to a resignation agreement with the Board of Education two months ago, Polanski is now holding his departure for ransom. He is demanding another $30,000.00 from the Milford Board of Education in addition to the $110,000.00.

Mark Stapleton, who has represented the constituents of this city with an incredible level of commitment and resolve, has rightfully called his latest act of defiance "regrettable." Polanski, has chosen to go "all in" betting that the city will not try to "fire him out right."

However, he is mistaken because there is good grounds to "fire" Polanski and give him the only benefits afforded under the law for a terminated employee. Assuredly those benefits are substantially less. While Polanski has not had his day in court, his actions continue to declare a level of hubris only expected from a person who just received an innocent verdict by a jury of his peers.

The lewd and lascivious actions that led to his subsequent accusations, and his eventual arrest were borne after the Milford Police Department conducted an investigation and found there was enough evidence, or "probable cause," to have him arrested.

His actions, as were highlighted by his accusers (two principals) included "intimidation," "flashing his genitals," "open mouth kissing" and " placing his hands on their "rears." While Mr. Polanski is scheduled to appear in court to face these charges, his latest misconduct involving this new found extortion plot against the city are only going to further harm his reputation within the community. When he succeeds in achieving this, finding a local and impartial jury to preside over his trial may become more challenging for his attorney Fred Dorsey.

Mr. Polanski has pleaded ignorance to the charges alleged against him. He is citing that "he did not know that his cultural habits would offend others." This is what has laughingly become the "Borat" defence, in honor of the film by Sacha Baron Cohen where the character Borat engages in outrageous cultural behavior that dupes his unwilling suspects in a manner that leads to chaos and confusion.

While only he knows for sure what happened, the preliminary evidence against him is strong. He has created a track record of controversial behavior from the onset of his employment. We have learned that while he was at Southington murmurs about a investigation there were kept to a low tone. Polanski was given the benefit of the doubt, and after attending a party with known sexual offenders and underage drinking that also was a "close call" he managed to escape from.

Personally I believe that, this time, Polanski will most likely end up fired. I do not believe that any sensible person on a city board should allow him to recoup anything more than what is allowed by The Department of Labor. This battle he is waging on the Board of Education will most likely be a second civil case in addition to his criminal case that his testing the limits of the people of Milford.

While this great city has endured all kinds of hardships and legal challenges the time has come to stand up and not create a policy that rewards the malintent of an accused criminal. Perhaps an "agreement in principle" should in fact contain a clarification of what it means to have "principles."

Voice Your Opinion On Milford's Land Use

Residents are invited to give their input on open space in Milford, on a survey being conducted by the Mayor’s Open Space Advisory Committee.

The survey seeks residents’ opinions on how they value open space and farming here.

The survey can be accessed in either of two ways: online at: http://www.milfordopenspace.com/survey at the library, 57 New Haven Avenue, where printed copies may be filled out and placed in a specially marked box.

Surveys will be available both online and at the library until March 1, and results will be published both on the website and in the media.

(From Frank Juliano's Milford Musings)

Milford's Jim Amann Widraws From Race

Milford's Jim Amann has withdrawn from the race for Governor citing heavy competition from popular wealthy Democrats. Including in his words "Ned Lamont who has deep pockets." Amann alleges he cannot compete with the "personal finances" of many of the contenders.

Jim Amanns campaign was riding on the premise that the Citizens election campaign would provide him with 1.5 Million for a primary and another 3.0 Million to run for Governor.

The program was mired in problems that stemmed from a lawsuit that called the program unconstitutional. Last summer a a superior court judge named Underhill agreed and the program has been in a state of legal limbo ever since. Richard Blumenthal filed an appeal, but that appeal is expected to be heard this March and since legislators in Hartford have not acted in a favorable manner the program is expected to fail in its entirety.

Some key state legislators have already pointed out that millions of the the funds have already been redirected toward helping disadvantaged people in Social Services, calling helping the poor a higher priority than funding elections.

Governor Rell made her final plea last month to the state legislature during her State of the State address. She called upon both houses of government to rescue the belabored Citizens Election Program. Rell said that "we have worked tirelessly to limit the influence of special interests, saving public financing must be made an important priority moving forward."

Those words however are not being taken seriously because the number of candidates seeking public funding in the 2010 election cycle is significantly down. The main reason stems on the fact that there is no guarantee that candidates can be successful.

The Day After The Storm

Fortunately the snow storm in Milford did not drop the expected mass that is mostly on Washington D.C. Milford received about Four Inches of mostly wet snow that is melting in the mid day afternoon weather.

News 12 was spotted last evening in front of Autozone filming traffic and the weather conditions. Kids got their day off from school, and again today a opening delay as the city buses were clearing their windows and preparing their buses for transportation.

The city will return to business as usual this week, and several debates are still ongoing over over the Kimball Report Implementation Team (KRIT), the lack of transparency in that department and the enormous double digit increase in their budget.

The newly created land use Czar has just received a raise to Apx $100,000.00 per year from the original %95,000.00 per year. The Czars are not sitting well with some city board members who are complaining that they are marginalizing, and ignoring the authority of the city boards.

Meanwhile, a $300,000.00 elevator at Pumpkin Delight school awaits approval and two fire departments in the Woodmont section of Milford appear to be paying the price for the city's management mistakes. These mistakes are forcing them to cut costs by consolidating the two departments into a single unit.

This is an ongoing and controversial debate this week, along with several other key issues effecting the Board of Education whose budget proposal has already been approved and is awaiting final approval from the Board of Finance.

The Mayors proposed budget has a 3.95% increase this year and will mark a decade where our city doubled its spending from Apx.95 Million in 1999 to 190 Million in 2009, making the present mayor the most fiscally irresponsible in the city's history if not the entire state. Tom Byrne, a former Republican Town Committee member has become the city's most outspoken critic of the Republican Party and the Mayor's administration.

Snow Approaches Milford

The talk all around town today is the coming snow storm expected to drop 12-18 inches of snow on our lovely community. The snow has caused many people and stores to be unusually busy today as city dwellers anxiously get all their out of home errands and shopping taken care of.

Kids are looking forward to a possible day off from school, they would prefer a fun sledding and snow party instead of the usual books and science. The threat of snow was already made last week, and much to the chagrin of the towns kids it failed to materialize beyond New Jersey and school went on as usual.

This time the storm appears to coming without fail and the weather men are telling us that this time is for real. With that in mind I plan on working late this evening so in the event I, like others, cannot make it to work in morning all my business will be taken care of today.

Hopefully all those, who did not know about the coming snow will be ready for a fun filled day of shoveling, and digging out cars. Drive carefully, and get well rested tonight; for tomorrow we will all get a lot of exercise undoing the damage caused by mother nature and the snow plows.

Jonathan Foran High School

Perhaps the High School name is a bit odd but it is the only play on words I can think of when it comes to the very idea of merging the two schools into one.

Milford's budget continues to be hampered by the economy, its associated deflation in tandem with long term unemployment, and of course taxes, taxes and ever increasing property taxes.

Well last week after looking at the city's proposed budget and reading the repair and improvement costs on Milford's schools I had to pinch myself. The nightmare of $100,000,000.00 in repairs just seemed like I was trapped in a taxpayer nightmare, a nightmare where everyone gets 3%-5% raises while massive teacher layoffs loom on the horizon yet again. Only problem was... well I am not dreaming and yes I was very awake and if you are not, then you need to wake up for this one.

Today I made several hasty phone calls, sent lots of e-mails, spoke to countless experts and concluded that our two High Schools will have to eventually merge into one. The benefits of doing so are immense. The risk of not doing so and applying expensive "band aids" certainly not a smart option.

The green movement in town has been pushing for more ecofriendly projects, and with the "skyrocketing" cost of school repairs a "green Leeds" certified "world class" high school is starting to make sense. A Leeds certified High School would be the first of its kind in CT and would save the city a great deal of energy costs.

The best way not to throw away good tax dollars on crumbling buildings, is to challenge the logic of spending the equivalent of a new school, on two old energy inefficient buildings that need endless and costly repairs.

The epiphany is coming, and when it does our leaders will hopefully realize it is more cost effective to build a brand new H.S.from scratch. Milford's schools I believe have entered into this reality, but has yet to embrace enough conservative proponents.

The main challenge (at the moment) is to locate a suitable building site. Thankfully I did some research and found a good candidate. The building site that I propose involves the recently purchased 7.6 acres on Burnt Plains Road. The property abuts other sizable lots, also owned by the city and is right near the Milford YMCA of which offers a great Indoor swimming pool, and a soccer field. It would also be in the company of Platt Tech and far away from the fast food chains that tempt our kids into poor nutrition.

This would certainly be the best answer for a new school that would house apx 3,000 kids in a centrally located part of our city. Since Milford already owns the lots land costs would be minimal to none. Some costs to the taxpayers, could be recouped by leasing out the old High Schools, relocating crowded middle schools, or converting them into senior living centers.

The, consolidation would be costly at first but over time would save Milford's taxpayers millions of dollars, while in tandem increasing our local property values. Fewer resources and personnel will be dedicated to the maintenance, and daily management of a well designed facility.

With strong momentum, favorable support, and a serious effort Jonathan Foran High School could be a reality within four or Five years if we start taking education costs seriously now.

(Photo of Comcast Center A Leeds Certified Building)

Milford YMCA Offers Life Guard Course

The Woodruff Family YMCA, 631 Orange Ave., is offering an American Red Cross Lifeguard training, which includes first aid, CPR/AED for professional rescuers, and blood-borne pathogens trainings.

The course will be held 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Feb. 15-20. Students must be 15 years or older by Feb. 20. Cost is $325 and includes lifeguard manual and pocket mask. Participants must bring a bathing suit and towel.

For more information, contact Matt Laprino, aquatic director, at 203-878-6501, ext. 3117 or e-mail at mlaprino@cccymca.org.

Forwarded from New Haven Register

Liberty Rock Motel No More

The Liberty Rock Motel located next to McDonald's on Bridgeport Ave. has been officially razed. The site owned by the Trev's, Corporation also own the the neighboring fast food restaurant.

The Motel is being cleared to the praises of Jim Amann a member of the Devon Revitalization Committee. Amann was quoted in the New Haven Register as saying “It’s had its day.” Community and Economic Development Director Robert Gregory said "a new development fits with the revitalization for Devon."

Hotels and Motels are becoming challenging in Milford, in the last five years Milford has seen Three new hotels added to the city. There are 10 such lodging establishments and all of them are hungry for occupancy.

The loss of the Liberty Rock Motel was certainly a sigh of relief to the Devon Motel right across the street who will welcome their guests. The new plans for the site are still not yet known, but as we are told by a source at the Trev's corporation there has been active and ongoing discussions on how best to utilize the property.

Thus far the only city permit that has been issued is the demolition permit.

Doctors With A Heart Day

On Feb. 12 the office of Sensitive Care, Drs. Mitchell Quintner, Kristin Helms, Karey Rainey, Alexander Quintner and their hygienists, will hold their annual day of giving "Doctors with a Heart Day."

Community members will get free dental services. Patients treated in the office at 55 Old Gate Lane will not be billed for the services they receive. Patients will not be questioned about income and will not be required to explain or show proof of a financial hardship.

Single visit office procedures will be provided free of charge, some procedures include cleanings, exams, X-rays, extractions, denture repairs and restorative restorations.

All patients will be seen on a first-come first-served basis. Appointments will not be available. The office will be open from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Above photo of Dr. Quintner

(Announcement Forwarded From NH Register)

Milford's Grand List Grows By One Percent

The grand list, or the value of everything taxable in Milford has grown by One Percent. I suppose Mayor Richetelli is correct that this is great news, but I also suppose the impact of it is for you to decide.

To put this into perspective Milford will get an additional 1.5 Million in revenue to offset your tax bill this year. Most of this increase is from the Devon Power station, and improvements not to the city's belabored real estate values, but rather accredited to heavy industry moving into our city.

The funds collected for our towns budget, is usually in excess of 150 Million. However, just in education alone we spend over 100 Million of that money. To make matters more challenging our schools need an additional 100 million in improvements.

Add inflation, unemployment, increased taxation, and a wasteful government and the picture becomes clearer as to why 1.5 Million is the equivalent of a cup of coffee in the schema of of Republican spend thrift politics.

This issue was best described by Thomas Beirne, a former Republican now shunned for daring to challenge the liberalism in the Republican Party. Byrne a former RTC member, wrote the following letter to the Ct Post challenging his party to be more conservative.

Beirne States:

The chairman of the Milford Republican town committee was quoted as saying I had “betrayed” the MRTC when in fact it is the MRTC that has betrayed the basic principle of the Republican Party, fiscal responsibility. In the past 10 years during which the mayor’s office was held by a Republican, the taxes we all pay went from $94.7 million in 1999 to $142.9 million in 2009. Our tax burden increased by $48 million, a 51 percent increase. This increase was needed to pay for the spending increase which went from $114.1 million in 1999 to $172.8 million in 2009. Spending increased by $59 million, a 51 percent increase.

What does the future hold for us? Check out the June 30, 2009, financials (www. ci.milford.ct.us).

Net assets for governmental activities decreased by 4.9 percent ($141.3 million to $148.6 million). Governmental funds had a combined deficit fund balance of $19.8 million, which is larger than last year’s deficit of $12.9 million.

What do all these numbers mean? Answer: Milford is spending our money faster than they can take it from us.

Some thoughts, to consider this budget season when addressing the city's needs vs. wants and why you are struggling to pay the tax on your home. We get the government you vote for and sadly the mayor wants to raise your taxes again.

INDEPENDENT PARTY IN MILFORD CT FORGES AHEAD WITH OFFICIAL TOWN COMITTEE

Milford Independents met last month with kindred spirit. Informal and fruitful discussions took place and a conclusion was made to forge ahead with the implementation and organizing of an official party.

A public gathering is now being called together by Independents Rocco J. Frank Jr., Dick Sieron and Steve Borer who also generously contributed to the expense of the upcoming gathering.

The purpose of the gathering is to agree on a set of by-laws, party leadership, and form an Independent Town Committee. A democratic approach will be used in order to adopt, and agree on a suggested set of by-laws that were provided by Mike Telesca and the CT Independent Party state central.

All people interested in participating in, and forming an Independent Town Committee must be registered with an Independent Party. Recognized qualifying parties are Independent, Milford Independent, Independent American, Independence, and American Independent parties.

The place of assembly will be at the meeting room located at Stonebridge Restaurant on Monday February 22 at 7:00 P.M.

People interested in running for an office must have their name appear on the Voter Registrar list as of Feb. 20, 2010. Party changing prior to the announced date is acceptable as long as a confirmation of party enrollment is provided. Unaffiliated voters may immediately enroll in an Independent party the night of the event. Voter registration forms and a concierge will be available onsite to assist newcomers with their registration.

Most Independents have called this gathering truly exciting and an indication of a monumental shift in the political landscape of Milford. Party insiders, organizers, and friends are looking forward to the balance, foresight, and insightful ideas to be offered by the Milford Independents who are proudly celebrating their third year in politics.

Milford To Close Two Fire Houses

The Woodmont and Point Beach firehouses will be closed and replaced by a new, larger station farther inland.

The Board of Aldermen approved the consolidation plan, part of a larger capital improvement plan, by a 13-1 vote Monday night.

"All of the firehouses except for headquarters were originally built near the water, because Milford started out as a beach community,'' Minority Leader Phil Vetro, D-4, said Tuesday. "But the residential growth has been to the north and this would better serve the area.

CONTINUE READING CLICK HERE

Milford Independents Forge Ahead With Official Party

Milford Independents met last week at Cabo, informal discussions took place and a conclusion was made to forge ahead with the implementation of an official party. Sometime in the next week a public advertisement will be placed in the newspaper, thanks to a generous donation of a few political enthusiasts who put up the money for the ad.

The ad will announce a time, date and meeting place for an assembly of all people interested in participating in, and forming an Independent Town Committee. The purpose of the gathering is to agree on a set of by-laws, party leadership, and engage in discussion in the official adoption of the templete charter provided by the CT Independent Party state central.

As it stands the independent Party has no formal charter, no town committee, and only an acting Chairman. Nominations are currently solicited for positions of leadership. However, a pre-set of rules exists, and only people from the Independence, Independent, and Milford Independent Party can vote and run for office.

Unafiliates can also vote, but only after completing a change of registration card at the receptions concierge desk. All are invited, Republicans and Democrats can Join, but according to state rules they must wait the required SOT Three month period before voting in any officiall business.

Your name must appear on the Voter Registrar list as of that date. If you changed party prior to the announced date, you must bring a confirmation of your party enrollment.

This is truly exciting news many party insiders, organizers, and friends are looking forward to the balance and insight offered by the the towns independents. Keep a watchful lookout for the ad that will appear in the Milford Mirror next week.