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Courant's Disgraceful Attack On Saundra Kee Borges

By Mike McGarry

May 23, 2013

Last week, we noted an editorial that cast aspersions on the work of Saundra Kee Borges. We explained that the political leadership of the city sets policy, selects personnel and is ultimately responsible for outcomes.

So, this Sunday, the Courant took another dastardly stab at Borges. What does Colin McEnroe know about the workings of city government? By picking a few instances (they happen in every government level - look at Obama now) and ignoring the major changes in Hartford that she oversaw, McEnroe shows how shallow he is - and always has been.

Let's look at history. When the Republicans had influence, the size and scope of Hartford's government was reduced in a measured manner. Saundra Kee Borges understood the policy directive from the Council and Mayor at the time - when the G.O.P. had a say, the mill rate was under thirty mills. The tax levy went down every year the G.O.P. had a say. Then, along came complete control by the Democratic party and their lefto friends, the Working Families Party, and the tax levy has gone up every year since then and taxes are now at a job- killing 74 mills. The rise in apartment assessments will harm Hartford's working poor – why isn't that ever noted by the editorial board of the Courant?

Other history made with the guidance of Saundra Kee Borges was the complete change in Hartford's housing policy. In the Perry years, and before, Hartford was turning into one big public housing project. Once Mayor Mike and the Republicans took over, that policy changed. Thousands of Hartford residents became homeowners because a good lady understood her role was to listen to the elected officials.