Deliberative Session discussion of Article 27 State Funding to Local Communities
Presented by Paul Skudlarek. The petitioner argues that the state legislature has systematically decreased corporate and high-income taxes, leading to a significant loss in state revenue. This fiscal policy forces local municipalities to cover the shortfall, resulting in rising property taxes for residents. The speaker highlights several unfunded community needs, including infrastructure repairs, emergency services, and school support, that are currently jeopardized by this downshifting of costs. Ultimately, the article seeks to send a formal message to state representatives demanding they prioritize taxpayer protection over further state-level tax cuts. The measure will appear on the upcoming ballot for a final vote by the community.
Article 27 [CITIZENS PETITION – STATE FUNDING TO LOCAL
COMMUNITIES]
New Hampshire thrives when state funding fairly supports local communities. Therefore, the residents of Londonderry are asked: Do we call on the New Hampshire Legislature to protect local taxpayers by ensuring adequate state revenues for essential services, and by avoiding policies that shift costs onto local property taxpayers? This question arises because recent state budgets have reduced or eliminated key revenue sources, forcing towns and counties to raise property taxes to maintain education, healthcare, county nursing homes, public safety, and infrastructure. These shifts burden working families strain local budget, limit flexibility, and undermine long-term community prosperity. A state budget that prevents cost-shifting and restore municipal revenue sharing eases the tax burden on local property taxpayers and strengthens communities. Be it further resolved that the Town Council shall send the results to the Governor and all members of the General Court representing Londonderry within 30 days. (CITIZENS PETITION)