Public hearing: Torrington residents weigh rising taxes against school investments

The Board of Finance opened a public hearing at 7:28 p.m. on April 21 to solicit resident input on the Torrington Public Schools proposed FY2026–27 budget.

A written comment from Steven Barlow, a senior resident, warned that recent property‑tax increases are unsustainable: he said his taxes rose about 25% last year and expected another 25% this year, which he summarized as a 50% two‑year increase for some homeowners and urged the boards to consider the burden on fixed‑income seniors when setting mill rates.

Speakers from education pushed back on the idea that the budget is excessive. Peter Michaelson, principal at Southwest School (non‑resident employee), argued education has lost purchasing power over time and supplied comparative figures: over the last 10 years the overall city budget increased roughly 19.81% while education rose about 8.78%, a divergence he said supports investment in teachers and schools. Jason Lafreniere, a 22‑year teacher in the district, urged continued collaboration between the two boards and said the budget reflects identified needs to maintain programs and instruction.

Resident Del Pozo, a 70‑year Torrington resident, urged the boards to prioritize between necessary repairs (for example heating) and perceived new or discretionary positions (he singled out an athletic director as an example), stressing affordability for long‑time residents on fixed incomes.

No further speakers addressed the hearing and the chair closed the public session. The written and spoken comments provide clear public interest in both tax affordability and school program investment as the boards negotiate final appropriations.