To My Neighbors in Melrose,

I’ve lived in Melrose for over 25 years. I raised my family here, volunteered, paid my taxes, been a good neighbor, and contributed in every way I could to make this a strong and welcoming community. I understand deeply the concerns expressed by newer families, and I genuinely appreciate their desire for well-funded schools and quality education. That desire is shared by many of us who have been here for decades. I understood my children would get a good education, not a world class (as stated by our last Superintendent) but that was good enough as it allowed us to afford to live in a great community open to all incomes and life cycles.

But I want to speak honestly, from the perspective of someone who’s lived through countless budget cycles, city council meetings, and yes — tax overrides. While the intentions behind these overrides may be good, the long-term effects have too often hit hardest not on the wealthy, but on seniors, working-class residents, and those on fixed incomes like myself.

The slogan “Don’t tax us out” is not a scare tactic. It’s reality for many of us. Each override raises our property taxes permanently — and when you’re living on a pension or Social Security, or one income every dollar counts. I know neighbors who have already sold their homes because they couldn’t keep up. These were people who volunteered in schools, coached sports teams, and paid taxes here for decades. We love this city too, and we also helped build the Melrose others have now chosen to move to.

I’ve heard people say, “just apply for tax relief programs.” I appreciate that these exist, but try applying for them and you will quickly find out that most of us don’t qualify. I’ve heard suggestions that we take out loans on our house to pay our taxes and that is an extremely careless and a reckless suggestion. These suggestions may make those making them feel better but are not realistic options for most.

We all want a strong school system. But it is not only families with children who matter in a city. A healthy community values all its residents — young and old, lifelong and new. When we repeatedly ask for more money without making structural changes or demanding accountability in spending, we divide our city instead of strengthening it.

 I’m saddened to hear that some young families feel Melrose “did not choose” them. But from where I stand, many long-time residents are beginning to feel the same — that unless we can keep up with newer more affluent residents, our presence no longer matters. That’s not the inclusive, connected community I helped build. It’s also important to recognize that families with more financial flexibility often have the option to move elsewhere, while those with fewer resources — especially seniors and working-class residents — do not. Change is always easier for the young. It’s the older and most vulnerable among us who are at the greatest risk of being priced out of the city entirely. Why should those of us who have created this great city over the decades not be able to live out our years in our homes and community.

We need a solution that doesn’t pit one group against another. That starts with fiscal responsibility, creative problem-solving, and meaningful public input — not simply higher taxes.

With respect and hope for better understanding,

A Longtime Melrose Resident

Anthony Fera