Deb Henson’s Gathering on Alternative Budgeting, August 27th

August 27th, 2025 from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m.

90 Park St, Florence Civic Center

Dear Supporters for Change in City Government:

Join us at Florence Civic Center next Wednesday eve for Deb’s next Gathering during which we will discuss all things budget!! We’ll start off with a presentation by Tyler Barnett, a corporate/finance lawyer who really digs talking about city budget practices and options. Tyler will present (1) how our city budget is currently created; and (2) alternative ways to create our budget that could fund the schools, DPW, etc. without bankrupting the city.

Following Tyler’s brief presentation, we’ll segue into an engaged Q/A/Discussion regarding Alternative Ways to Create the City’s Budget Without Breaking the Bank. I know this sounds like nerd heaven only, but even if finance isn’t your thing, please come be involved and ask questions so that we all can better understand that the current budgeting practices are not the only ones that can be employed – other cities/towns differ in their approaches to budget creation and we can make different choices in our city, too. Of course, other topics may arise for discussion, but the general focus will options for budgeting that can help you respond when others say: “Sure we all want the schools to be better for our kids, but there’s no more money to give the schools. Show me the money!” Ok. We will!

My previous Change Candidates Gathering on July 31st at my place was well attended; some 35 people braved the thunderstorms and heavy rain to come out and discuss city politics! Quite a dedicated bunch! Numerous candidates for city council, school committee, and one for mayor (Dan Breindel) joined the party and presented their background and platforms. The group asked questions, and we had a lively time. Two members of the Save Paradise group (Michael Kane and James Winston) presented a schematic of the current Picture Main Street design and the group discussed some of the safety concerns with the design. The group agreed that a trial run would be the most effective way to test the city’s design; the city should want this test to show they have a workable idea, and opponents of PMS should want it to see if their safety concerns arise during the trial.

Please join us at the Florence Civic Center next Wednesday for the budget discussion. We promise to keep it lively. Refreshments provided. This location is accessible and has free parking. Other candidates for change will be invited to attend so you’ll have a chance to meet and talk with them, too.

We’ll have fun as we learn and discuss different approaches that Northampton can employ with annual budgeting and, if elected, I will strive to change the current practices so that schools, DPW, and other essential services can be fully funded.

I would love to have your vote in the preliminary on September 16th for At-Large City Councilor.

For your voice in government,

Deb