I’ve been reading the misinformation about Mexico’s finances. As a member of the town’s Budget Committee, I am aware of the figures.

The only way to cut revenue 10 percent is to reduce services. That would mean cuts to the library of $60,000; garbage disposal, $59,000; recreation, $100,000; police, $60,000. I did not include fire department and roads, as they are essential services.

The only other way is to cut reserve funds. Those are set-aside funds for replacing police cars, fire trucks, etc. That money is also used to avoid tax anticipation funding for ongoing operations, before taxes are due. That costs money.

If the library was open part time, I expect the librarian would leave (the only full-time employee). Try maintaining what we have with part-timers.

Cutting the Recreation Department to part time would not save money as the recreation building has full-time tenants that bring the town approximately $80,000 in revenue each year. The town would still have to maintain the building year-round. So, no savings and a potential loss of $80,000 in revenue.

Garbage disposal — the contract is up for renewal. It costs $20 per person for curbside pickup per year. Can it be done for less?

The town voted to have a full-time police department of five officers. You can reduce the force by one, saving approximately $50,000, but there would no longer be 24/7 coverage. There has been an increase in violent arrests in the area.

I appeal to town residents — do not drive the future away with short-sightedness.

Peter DeFilipp, Mexico