The guest column from Steve Duguay of Byron (Dec. 11) was an incisive account of managing town affairs, and, in particular, it illustrated the crucial decisions leading to the proper choices to be made within the limitations of town budgets.

All small towns are coping with stringent budgets and face decisions on how to continue services to all residents without restrictions. Duguay’s column was a candid accounting, and those who have served on town boards will recognize the value of the article.

It is apparent that our state government officials turn a very deaf ear to assistance required by the towns in the struggle over budgets. The large amounts of funding towns put toward school systems leaves very little for other mandated services.

If any residents are concerned, this is a plea for them to ease matters by getting involved. Citizens can volunteer time to be on town boards, where their talents can be useful. People can also make certain to attend all voting opportunities and appear at all town meetings and other special budget meetings as they are called. Do not leave major decisions about the town’s finances to minority groups with a special agenda.

People need to speak, have their voices heard and become involved. That is the special gift of life in America. Each citizen has a voice, free to be heard.

Charles Peillet, Greene