The Problem
For too long, decisions in the Town of Newburgh have been made behind closed doors. Budgets are hard to find, contracts are awarded without scrutiny, and residents are left in the dark about how their tax dollars are spent. This isn't just bad governance - it's a betrayal of the public trust.
Stephen's Plan
Open the books. Every budget, contract, and financial report will be published online in a searchable, accessible format. No more FOIL requests just to see how your money is being spent.
Hold regular public forums. Stephen will host quarterly town hall meetings - real ones, not staged events - where residents can ask questions and get straight answers.
Strengthen ethics rules. Town officials and employees should be held to the highest standards. Stephen will push for stronger conflict-of-interest policies and real enforcement mechanisms.
End backroom decision-making. Major decisions affecting residents should be made in public, with advance notice and meaningful opportunities for community input.
Why It Matters
Transparency isn't just a buzzword - it's the foundation of trust between government and the people it serves. When residents can see what their government is doing, they can hold leaders accountable. Stephen has spent years digging into town budgets, audits, and fiscal practices. He knows where the problems are, and he's ready to fix them on day one.