My name is Tim Finan, and I am a candidate for the Milford Board of Selectmen. I am a 28 year resident of Milford and, along with my wife Jeryl (O’Neil), have raised our four children here in this wonderful community. I previously served two terms as a selectman (2007-2013), which I feel gives me the familiarity and institutional knowledge necessary to hit the ground running, while also bringing a fresh voice to the board.

I have also had to opportunity to serve on many other boards and commissions. As a member of the Planning Board, I learned the value of long-range planning, and the importance of protecting the rights of individual property owners while also encouraging economic development that will lessen our property taxes. As a member of the Recreation Commission, I learned the value of recreational programming in maintaining a vibrant community. As a member of Granite Town Media, I understand the importance of community outreach, transparency and participation.

My experience on the Budget Advisory and Capital Improvements Committees gave me great insight into the budget process, and how we can meet the needs of the town and its residents, while always maintaining a laser focus on the taxpayers’ ability to afford it. We must be smart not only about spending, but also about revenue. Property taxes only account for about 60% of the town’s spending, yet whenever we need something, the first thing we do is look to the taxpayer. We must find creative ways to increase that other 40%, our non-tax revenue. We must be prudent about our use of Fund Balance (accumulated year-over-year budget surpluses) and use it in ways that take future spending off the books (and therefore off the tax rate). Every time we face a challenge, we can’t simply cut and slash, kicking the can further down the road. We must look out over 5-10 years, and work to ensure that we can fund town services while keeping taxes as low as possible.

I will provide a steady, rational voice on the board, one who takes all views into consideration and never comes to the table with an agenda. The goal has to be what is best for Milford, not one department, not one group, not one ideology. I believe I am up to the task and ask for your vote on March 8.