At the revised cost of the project to convert the existing baggage building at the train station into a welcome center estimated at $496 thousand, we are looking at a renovated building costing over $700 per square foot! Add in the $250 thousand thrown around some time ago for acquiring the building and taxpayers are looking at at least a $750 thousand project originally estimated all in at $403 thousand (i.e. including cost of building) that voters approved. We need to call timeout and let the voters weigh in again.
If you have the chance, ask the candidates for Selectman how they feel about this. We already know that Selectman Quandt who, according to his own words on his post card to voters, "Listens to taxpayers and employees for better government efficiency." How does his rush to vote to continue spending more taxpayer money on an project projected to exceed what voters approved? This is yet another example of ignoring the will of the voters.
For those who feel because it is 70% grant money Exeter taxpayers are only paying 30% I say this. Regardless of whose money it is, waste is waste. The same folks who believe it is o.k. to use grant money in this way, likely also rail against government and military waste of tax dollars.
In spite of the vote that came down in last Monday's Board of Selectmen meeting, voters still have a voice at public comment in upcoming meetings when all five Selectmen are present. Finally, consider for whom you vote for Selectman in March. Ferraro wishes to bring the issue back to the voters for re-consideration.
