School is still in session, but the auto transport trucks have been loading up for weeks and the clubs have been busy with their end-of-season gatherings.
Summer must be just around the corner.
You may think those of us who stay here during the summer months will be taking it easy, sipping piña coladas poolside while you’re away. Sounds good, but instead many of us will be busily involved as our towns make decisions that ultimately may have an impact on your winter lifestyle.
Preliminary property tax numbers will soon be shared with towns and final numbers will be available by July 1. Budget hearings typically begin soon after, as these numbers tell our towns how much money they can expect to fill their coffers in the coming year. As a result, most municipal planning decisions happen over the summer in the wake of these state-required budget deadlines.
Manalapan, Ocean Ridge and our neighbors in Boynton Beach have recently requested proposals from the Sheriff’s Office that may save our towns money — while also changing our “Mayberry by the Sea” character. Faced with the fiduciary responsibility of their elected positions, our councilmen and women have some tough decisions to make.
It is important to have your voice heard on your town’s budget, and to be informed when you do. You can stay up-to-date on budgets and other issues with The Coastal Star in either of two easy ways: by mail (our subscription form is on Page 26) or online at www.thecoastalstar.com.
We’ll be around all summer. We hope you’ll stay in touch — and informed. — Mary Kate Leming
Editor, The Coastal Star
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