By Jean Falbo-Sosnovich, Register Correspondent

SHELTON — Mayor Mark A. Lauretti warned Monday that the city will have to get more done with less money as he unveiled his budget proposal for fiscal 2010-11.

“Caution and uncertainty is the theme,” Lauretti told the Board of Apportionment and Taxation, along with about 40 people at City Hall. “We must all learn to do more with less, as is reflected in next year’s budget proposal.”

Lauretti unveiled a $110.1 million proposal, which is about $228,000 less than the current budget. Lauretti said under his proposal, the current tax rate of 18.61 mills would remain unchanged.

“This budget is both adequate and responsible,” Lauretti added. “It will allow Shelton to continue its economic growth and high quality of life.”

While Lauretti said Shelton continues to “lead the way” in economic growth, despite a national economy in turmoil, he said Shelton is not exempt from fiscal pain.

The grand list increased just 1 percent last year, Lauretti said.

And with many two-income households dealing with unemployment, or reduced work hours, Lauretti said his priority is to continue to keep taxes low.

“Next year’s spending levels are held to those of this year,” he said. “It will allow Shelton to hold the line on taxes much needed for our residents and business owners. Their economic survival is my priority.”

Lauretti’s proposal will not cause layoffs, reduce programs or ask for furloughs.

He also noted that municipalities must keep their budgets lean, due to the “state’s unwillingness to cut spending, coupled with declining state revenue that has left municipal officials not only wondering if this year’s appropriation in state aid and grants will be realized, but what the likelihood is of receiving any new monies.” Continued...

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Lauretti’s proposal is $4.7 million less than what the city departments requested. The largest component, the Board of Education budget, was reduced by Lauretti from $66.5 million to $63.1 million.

School officials had said the $3.5 million, or 5.6 percent, increase they approved is necessary to cover costs beyond the board’s control, such as contractual obligations and special education, and calls for elimination of about 28 staff members and several programs.

Lauretti, however, said a 5.6 percent increase in this economy is excessive. “It should be noted that this budget will not keep pace with educational spending requests,” Lauretti said.

Lauretti’s proposal includes $6.2 million for the Police Department, $2.8 million for highways and bridges and $758,326 for the Fire Department.

Aldermanic President John Anglace reiterated the call to hold the line on spending.

The tax board will begin budget workshops Monday, and is slated to submit its proposal to the Board of Aldermen in late March. The aldermen have the final say on the budget, and vote on it in mid-May.

Contact Jean Falbo-Sosnovich can be reached at jean.sos@snet.net.

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