“My parents moved here in the 1920’s. I’ve lived here all my life. My 96-year-old mother still owns her home. None of us have ever complained about paying taxes. We’re happy to give back to a Town that’s given us so much.”

“The economic reality for Yarmouth is that our excellent school system has been/is/will be – the primary engine when it comes to maintaining and enhancing property values. When people with school-age kids move to the area – the key real estate driver is ‘where is the best school system?’ In reality, Yarmouth’s tax rate is pretty reasonable when compared to other high-performing suburban communities. It only looks high against disparate numbers from disparate towns – apples and oranges. I support the current tax rate and town budgets – even against what many might consider as my own self-interest of currently having no kids attending the public schools because I think it’s best for the town. And beyond the clear and compelling economic argument for continued investment into our school system is the less quantifiable, yet equally important reality, that our schools play an enormous role in the overall tone, tenor, culture and character of the entire Yarmouth ‘community’ through sports, arts and academic engagement.”

“We can take great pride in the fiscal responsibility shown by the School Committee and the continued excellence of our schools. Yarmouth continues to be ranked among the top public school systems in the state, indeed, in the nation. We all benefit, whether or not you have children in the system. A well-educated, critical thinking populace is the foundation of democracy and a vibrant community.”

“I support the budget. There’s no question that property taxes are a significant expense in Yarmouth. But from my perspective, the administration and the School Committee have done a good job of keeping the school budget as efficient as possible, without compromising the quality of education in this town. Only a few years ago, we had the benefit of Wyman Station’s high property valuation in our property tax base. We don’t have that now. Despite this, the town’s overall property taxes have only modestly increased. I think this is an impressive achievement. I feel that those who are advocating a no vote on the budget are significantly discounting the benefits that a high-quality school district confers on all Yarmouth citizens, not just those with kids in the schools.”

“I moved from England and found the best schools in America.”

“Thank you.”