The Milford-Orange Times is continuing its election-year tradition of asking the candidates to respond to questions about what they would do for the residents of Milford if voters elect them on Nov. 2. This year we asked the Milford mayoral candidates the following question:
What is your vision for the future of Milford, and what specific steps will you take to make that vision a reality?
Benjamin Blake (D) – Incumbent
Ben Blake
Those who know me know that Milford has always held a very important place in my heart – it’s part of me and who I am. Milford has everything anyone could ever want – a beautiful coastline, a vibrant downtown, terrific schools and more. I had the great privilege of growing up in this city and I want my kids (and all our community’s children) to know the same Milford I knew growing up – the Milford I know today – the Milford I know we can realize tomorrow. Simply, this is my vision for Milford and with the continued support of the community, our future is bright.
As mayor, I’ve led our city with a steady hand and a firm belief that we can provide better city services, more efficiently, more cost effectively. We’ve sought out inefficiencies and streamlined processes and procedures to ensure we deliver better, faster and cheaper.
Milford taxpayers have now experienced back-to-back-to-back-to-back-to-back-to-back tax cuts – six consecutive decreases in the amount of local taxes due; no other town in the state can boast this experience – ever.
Over the past two years, business continues to skyrocket as we outpace all other Connecticut towns and cities. This past year alone, we’ve had 481 new businesses make Milford home. A tidal wave of economic development has helped grow our tax base to over $6.7 billion; we now have the largest grand list in New Haven County and one of the top in the state. All of this expansion has benefited Milford’s bottom line, supporting the overall budget.
In addition to tax cuts, Milford has done much to improve our community. We have made great efforts to restructure operations that maximize the effectiveness of local government. Our cost-conscious philosophy has not only saved the city money but enhanced the services we provide our citizens. It is through these types of strategies that we are financially able to take on projects that make our community more attractive. From paving more miles of street than ever before to making Milford a more walk-able and bike-able town to building new world-class recreational facilities to creating more downtown parking, we have been able to do more and invest more in improvements that make Milford more livable.
Even in these pandemic times, Milford continues to thrive. Indeed, we are proud of Milford’s accomplishments: a tax rate that is fair with excellent services; pristine parks, beaches and open spaces that enhance the quality of life for all; and a progressive optimism that turns potential problems into possibilities while pushing us all to work for a better, stronger, more innovative community.
As we continue along this trajectory, we are also sure to safeguard the traditions, heritage, history and attributes that make Milford the Small City with a Big Heart.
During my time as mayor, we’ve been through much together. We’ve come together as a community to face challenges and celebrate successes. I’m proud of the way the people of this city stand together, encourage each other and support one another. To be a part of this very special Milford family is an honor. As I’ve said before, in both good times and bad, the position of Milford mayor is, without a doubt, the best job on Earth.