Politics & Government

Bristol Residents A No-Show To Budget Public Hearing

Bristol Council heard from no one in favor or opposed to the proposed FY13 town budget.

The Bristol Town Council heard only their own voices on Thursday night during a meeting slated for residents of the town to voice their concerns regarding the proposed town budget.

"Do you think you'll be able to see if anyone raises their hand in the back row, Ken?" Councilor Halsey Herreshoff joked while scanning the empty room.

Council Chairman Kenneth Marshal directed his attention to the Town Clerk, asking if the meeting was meant for the Council to discuss outstanding questions.

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"Well, you can, but it is a public hearing scheduled for you to listen to the residents, not talk," Town Clerk Lou Cirillo said.

Last budget season, very to voice their concerns over a tax hike, so officials were not surprised to see an empty audience.

Find out what's happening in Bristol-Warrenwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"There's no increase in taxes, which is what everyone is concerned about, so we won't be surprised if we don't see many people at the hearing," said Council Vice Chairman, David Barboza.

Facing an empty room and no opposition to the proposed FY 13 budget, the Town Council remained confident in the town budget.

"We have certainly weathered some serious storms, but we have provided the town with assistance and the things necessary to keep this town running smoothly," Marshal said. "And over the years, with hard work, the town of Bristol has been placed on a firm fiscal footing."


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