A contract is a contract is a contract

Thursday, February 11, 2010

To the Editor:

It’s been quite a while since I’ve written a letter to the editor. However, after attending the school Deliberative Session on Tuesday I thought I would share my observations.

First, I would like to say it was very encouraging to see the turnout from the community. I think it is also noteworthy to acknowledge the students that were in attendance. The fact that our school system is exciting some of the student body to become aware of and get involved in the democratic process speaks volumes about the quality of our educators, school board and administration. Unfortunately, there were some residents in attendance who tried to discredit or belittle the comments made by some of the students.

What was most disheartening was the call by some in attendance for the town to renege on its contract with the teachers and other staff. A contract is something that should be binding and serve as a commitment by all involved to honor it. Just as some recognize that marriage is a contract, through good times and bad, for better or for worse, and would scoff at the thought of divorce, we as a town have an obligation to meet the agreed upon raises for the length of the contract. We can renegotiate another deal next year. If times were good, I doubt we’d be hearing calls for increases in the raises from these same people.

I understand that times are hard for some in town. I think the town should revisit the hardship exemptions for property taxes. Perhaps a short-term increase in the exemption under a slightly higher requirement would be in order. Then, after some time, the town could revisit the exemption when the economy improves. I for one would be more than willing to pay a slightly higher tax rate if it would assist other residents having difficult times.

It seems there are three groups of people in town. Those clearly having difficulties based on the economic situation, many who were very supportive of the teachers Tuesday and acknowledged the value they add to our schools, those who are fortunate enough to be working and/or comfortable with their economic situation and are willing to meet the contractual obligations of the school system, and others who are doing just fine but still seem intent on taking away those raises agreed upon in good faith by the school employees.

To the first group I say we should try as a community to do more to help you in hard times. To the second group, I say thank you. To the third group, I say, if you don’t like it, you can always move.

PHIL BRUNO

Bedford