CANDIDATE RESPONSES: Scott Centrella, Selectman

Scott Centrella, a Republican, is running for selectman. He currently serves as a selectman.

What needs to change in Easton, if anything?

Easton needs to look critically as our budget process, how we establish priorities and how we spend our money. The Board of Selectmen has just created a Tax Analysis Task Force charged with analyzing how Easton spends its tax dollars on an absolute and relative basis as compared to comparable towns in an appropriate reference group. The purpose is, in part, to provide us with relevant, objective data to assist decision-making in the next budget cycle.

What are the two most important issues in town, and why?

We must use all of the resources at our disposal to defeat high density housing projects, like the proposed Saddle Ridge development. Such projects, if successful, would destroy our protective zoning, have a detrimental effect on taxes and forever alter the landscape on this special town. We must also find creative ways to control spending and taxes while continuing to provide a top flight education to our children and essential services to our citizens.

What makes you qualified for the position?

My 26 years as an attorney have taught me to dissect problems, create creative solutions, and help disparate parties find common ground. As a longtime resident with 14 years collective experience on its Conservation Commission, Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Selectmen, I have an intimate understanding of Easton, its citizens and of what is important. I care deeply for Easton and will continue in a bipartisan effort to make sound decisions, protect our wonderful community and build the foundation for a secure and stable future.