Norwich residents voice frustration over city budget and lack of engagement

During the recent City Council meeting in Norwich, Connecticut, residents expressed deep frustration over rising taxes and the perceived lack of responsiveness from local officials. The meeting, held on June 16, 2025, highlighted significant community concerns regarding budget management and public safety.

One resident passionately criticized the council for its handling of financial issues, particularly the decision to transfer funds from the contingency budget to cover salaries for negotiated contracts. This individual emphasized that the city is facing serious challenges, including a decline in public safety with a shortage of police officers, and called for more engagement with the community through town hall meetings. The resident's remarks underscored a sentiment of disillusionment, questioning the council's commitment to addressing pressing issues.

Another speaker raised concerns about the school budget, urging the council to reach out to federal representatives for assistance with funding, particularly for special education. This resident highlighted the unsustainable trajectory of increasing school costs, warning that without external support, local taxpayers would bear an overwhelming financial burden.

The meeting also featured a public hearing on the Neighborhood Assistance Act, which aims to provide funding for community projects. However, the lack of public participation in this segment further illustrated the disconnect between the council and the community, as no residents stepped forward to voice their opinions.

Overall, the meeting reflected a growing frustration among Norwich residents regarding local governance and fiscal responsibility. As the council moves forward, it faces the challenge of rebuilding trust and ensuring that community voices are heard in future discussions. The need for transparency and proactive engagement with residents appears more critical than ever as the city navigates its financial and social challenges.