Crabtree letter to state delegation lays out town’s needs

SAUGUS – Town Manager Scott Crabtree laid out a list of town needs, from road resurfacing to a foam truck, in a letter to the state Legislative delegation.The letter, which was sent to State Sen. Thomas McGee (D-Lynn), State Rep. Donald Wong (R-Saugus) and State Rep. Kathi-Anne Reinstein (D-Revere), states that Saugus’ needs are “broad,” and include infrastructure upgrades, capital equipment, building maintenance and personnel.”Saugus is challenged, as many communities are, with maintaining a full-service community without the assistance of state aid, grants and state-supported and funded local initiatives,” said Crabtree. “Any and all monies ? that will assist Saugus that your office is able to secure on behalf of the town or the region is requested and will be openly welcomed.”Among some of the needs requested for the region include: resurfacing and widening Route 1, making Saugus a “surrounding community” if a casino opens at Suffolk Downs, closing the ash landfill next to Wheelabrator and not expanding Wheelabrator’s capacity.Crabtree made several requests for the town budget, which includes maintaining Ch. 70 education money, revising the vocational school funding formula that places an “unfair burden” on Saugus, financial assistance with the “recent record snow blizzard” and a foam truck to be stationed “on or near Route 1.”Crabtree also requested money for additional public safety personnel and equipment, equipment for the Department of Public Works, and maintaining fields and parks in town.Lastly, Crabtree listed several “upcoming initiatives Saugus will need help on,” such as the I-95 roadbed and Rumney Marsh restoration, a statement of interest for a new high school and technology upgrades.Crabtree said every item on the list is equally important, and noted it was compiled with input from the public, the school department, selectmen and department heads.”I think the state and local aid and Chapter 70, all those things are very important,” said Crabtree. “Those are all aspects where the state delegation can help. I think it’s important to keep communication open with the delegation. Obviously the town is looking for any and all monies and state initiatives.”Matt Tempesta can be reached at [email protected].