The second special election vote in Deerfield scheduled for Jan. 16 seeking approval to borrow up to $5 million through debt exclusion has caused these comments. The first vote on Dec. 5 did not approve the borrowing request. Not pleased with the results and reported low voter turnout, the identified cause mentioned was the town not providing enough information to voters. Vote results were 386 ballots cast or nearly 10% of the total 3,957 registered voters.

In comparison, at the earlier special Town Meeting on Oct. 23, 234 people attended, or about 6% of registered voters. The warrant article information presented received the votes to set up the special election. It gave the impression of enough information, and voters were ready to move forward on it. With the first election results it would appear not everyone voting on Oct. 23 cast a “yes” vote in December.

Each special election costs approximately $2,000. If the second special election again defeats the borrowing request, what is next? Call for another election, and even another, possibly?

With sewer (as applicable) and real estate tax bills received, taxpayers find a continued trend of increasing burden to continue with the wastewater treatment plant and Tilton Library projects. Looking further, in approximately 25 years, both Deerfield Elementary and Frontier Regional will reach their 50-year marks since new construction/upgrading in the 1990s and require borrowing to ensure continued operation and accreditation.

This starts with a “no” vote on Jan. 16 that requires adjustments in town budgets and assists to decrease the future burden on taxpayers. No one wants reduced town services and the implications of them, but until there are changes from the top towards true fiscal responsibility, what is the alternative?

The financial resources of taxpayers are not unlimited.

Paul R. Olszewski

South Deerfield