Enfield considers charter changes that could reshape its political landscape

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Charter Revision Commission meeting last week Enfield’s Charter Revision Commission met Thursday for its first in-depth workshop, generating a long list of proposals that could significantly alter how the town governs itself. Ideas ranged from switching to a two-year budget cycle, allowing a budget referendum, and compensating elected officials, or even shifting to a mayoral form of government. Other proposals included banning profanity on signs, locking non-governmental flag restrictions into the Charter, and changes such ending council districts. The meeting was structured as a pitch session, with each commission member suggesting topics for future discussion. In-depth discussions are to take place at subsequent meetings. While many proposals are unlikely to move forward—either because of insufficient support or legal concerns raised by the Town Attorney—the meeting highlighted potential flashpoints for what promises to be a spirited Charter revision process. Mayor Nelson’s Proposals...
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The JFK vote is a great outcome for Enfield

John F. Kennedy Middle School, Enfield, CT, Nov. 6, 2018 


Enfield generally voted Republican in the mid-term contest. It was not surprising. The town backed Trump in 2016 and this time gave the Republican gubernatorial candidate, Bob Stefanowski, 52% of the vote versus 41% for the Democrat, Ned Lamont.

Enfield is part of a pattern of suburban, working class and rural towns in this state voting Republican. A major driver of this pattern is anger over taxes. It was easy to see how this might spill over to the JFK referendum. It didn't. The school bond passed by a wide margin after its 2017 defeat.

Why did voters approve it?


The proponents seemed organized. They did a good job posting signs around town. They were active on Facebook and countered opponent claims with clear facts. Posting photos of the school's temporary boiler, a truck parked with dryer-type hot air vents running into building, was visual gold.

The problems at the school were well documented and the state's plan to cover 70% of the 84 million renovation was in place -- provided the town approved it.

The school bond was approved 9,778 to 8,050, a margin of more than 1,700 votes. The complaints raised by the opposition were more general. The voiced concerns about the overall tax burden and  the total project cost. But the arguments made by the proponents were specific to the problem at hand. That's what won the day.

But there were still a lot of opponents


This vote to approve the school board was a pragmatic decision by voters. The conservative impulse in Enfield remains in place. The town plans to close other buildings in town and reduce its inventory, setting up future battles. Generally, most people will support strong, decisive action to cut costs but they will be split over how to do.  The JFK bonding will help put the wind in the sails of those demanding the strongest action.

Future battles aside, the JFK bonding vote was a great outcome for Enfield and town residents should be proud.

The town recently completed a complete renovation of Enfield High School. The two major schools that take care of the town's kids from the 6th grade to graduation will become first class facilities, and this should improve Enfield as an attractive place for young parents. A good town just got a little better.

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