To the editor,
Naugatuck Mayor N. Warren “Pete” Hess is to be commended for focusing on the goal of reducing the tax rate in Naugatuck (Nov. 7 story in the Republican-American, “Hess priority is transportation hub”). However, there still are questions about the method.
The environmental and quality-of-life impacts of the railroad transportation hub to the residents of Naugatuck are a deep concern. Pan Am Railways, the potential partner, has been the target of lawsuits related to irresponsible behavior.
Naugatuck residents deserve serious scrutiny of all aspects of this proposal. Reducing the tax rate cannot come at the expense of public health and safety.
Paul Kostes
Naugatuck
