My first step would be to look closely at how we are spending the money we already have before asking taxpayers for more.
I would want to understand where the Township’s biggest costs are, what services we are providing, what we are paying for those services, and where there may be opportunities to do things more efficiently.
That means asking questions like: Are we getting the best value from our contracts? Are there opportunities to share services or negotiate better pricing? Are there programs or expenditures that could be delivered differently without reducing the services residents rely on? Are there external funding/grant opportunities we could apply for to support the program/ service/ initiative?
I also believe that saving taxpayers money isn’t simply about cutting services. It’s about responsible spending and getting the best possible value for every tax dollar.
So, my first step would be a thorough review of the budget and spending, working with staff and Council to identify realistic efficiencies, and prioritize what is truly necessary.
As a taxpayer myself, I want to know that every dollar being spent is being spent wisely.