As you know, net state aid to the Town of Weymouth is still below the level that the Town received during fiscal year 2002. This means that the Town has had to utilize one-time revenues as a basis of its budget since July 2003 the same year the state cut its aid to the Town.

We, as a town, have been able to survive by making this conscious choice. However, you have heard, that each candidate foresees difficult times ahead. I agree. The Town will no longer be able to take the approach of using these one-time revenues. In fact, those sources have been exhausted. It is clear that the Commonwealth will not be there to help us. We must adapt to this situation.

We have been there before and together we will work through any issues that may arise. My experience dating from the early 1990s demonstrates that it is possible.

I know that it will not be easy. I know that there may be impacts on each department within the town. Before I make such decisions, I will consider the impacts, listen to all opinions, be diligent in my study of the budget and keep the deliberations of government open and transparent to each of you.