Capital Planning
I believe a long range Capital Planning function, formed as an appointed multiple member body is a much needed function in Clinton Town Government. Therefore my suggestion would be the creation of a Long Range Capital Planning Committee. I feel this is much better than fighting fires that become the unplanned for expenditures we sometimes see today. To be fair there will always be emergency expenditures from time to time that must be addressed, but as a whole, there is no long range planning. I feel that this is a greatly needed function and long overdue for implementation in our local government. If formed the committee would be tasked with studying and recommending any large proposed capital expenditures involving acquisitions of land or expenditures of a certain dollar amount that would be decided when this committee is formed. All town departments would annually provide information concerning projects and large expenditures anticipated by them during the coming five years. This committee would study the need, timing and cost projections of these projects and expenditures and the effect each will have on the town’s financial position.This function or a similar plan can be implemented through a Town Meeting warrant article, I believe this is a needed function. It's just the same as doing your own budgeting for your household. You look at what you need to spend money on and prioritize these items, then purchase them as your budget permits. The same should go for town government. Look out five years and budget for large expenditures and capital improvements.