Big decisions, lots of pros and cons on the horizon

It was only a few months, but it seems like forever. I’m back and ready to represent.

First of all, thank you for re-electing me as your state representative. I know no one ran against me, but I still appreciate the support, and please know I don’t take it for granted — these aren’t easy times, and I know it’s a privilege and an honor to serve my community in this way.

We started back in the State House last week, and I’m still in seat number 2 on the House floor, and still on the Government Operations and Military Affairs Committee. I’m pleased to share that I was appointed ranking member of my committee for this biennium. We have a nice bipartisan mix at the top of the table, with a Democrat as chair and a Republican as vice chair, which will be helpful in maintaining a moderate balance as we address some delicate issues.

One of our first orders of business is resolving an issue in Bennington where a small number of voters were sent the wrong ballots; the legislature has constitutional authority to decide what happens with this election. It’s really interesting and also really serious. It’s also just the nerdy kind of stuff I like to work on.

In more important matters for Charlotters and Hinesburgers: Last week, I was watching football at my friends’ house, and I said, “Did you hear the good news? Property taxes are going down a few percent this year.” To which my friend said, “Yeah, but they’re still higher than they were.”

Point taken.

As I write this, we don’t know what Governor Scott’s big education reform plan is. I’m hoping it’s a good one. He’s going to let us know on Wednesday what he proposes as a good solution for education finance reform and creating a sustainable and affordable system that will pay for students’ needs and also not break the backs of taxpayers.

I have some questions for all of you, and please let me know if you see me around town or feel free to send an email or text or give me a call.

What do you think about a foundation formula for school funding?

In this model, school districts across the state would receive equivalent amounts of money, and any supplemental costs would be paid for on a more community-based level, with school districts voting separately for any amounts above that base level. The main pro: It will be less expensive for taxpayers. The main con: It might go against our initial Act 60 sentiment, which is to provide equal education opportunities for all Vermont students.

How do you feel about local control?

We have a strong tradition in this state of maintaining local control over most aspects of our civic lives. We are one of a small handful of states that have individual school district budgets and teacher contracts, and we are one of maybe two states that don’t have a substantial county system of government. We go straight from local control to state control, without a stop in between. The main pro: We get to decide what we want as a town. The main con: It can be expensive.

What do you think about the proposed Charlotte town charter?

Its purpose is to override a law that was passed last year to allow municipalities to approve land-use regulations without a town vote. I’m fully supportive of using the democratic process to represent the will of the voters, although to be honest, as I’ve said in public meetings, I don’t think the Legislature as a whole is going to be too excited to roll back laws we just passed less than a year ago. Pros: It would bring back local control across the board. Cons: It would make it more difficult for planning and zoning committees to do their work.

What do you think about the Affordable Heat Act?

There’s no specific legislation that would take the study to the next level, but the reports are pretty clear that this might not be the best option for Vermonters. I’m conflicted. Pros: I recognize the need to fight climate change. (We shelled out a lot of money for a flooded private road in my neighborhood last year.) Cons: The system we proposed might be too expensive for too little impact for Vermonters.

These are issues coming up really soon, and I’d love to get your input before I have to vote or advocate for our community. I can be reached by email or 917-887-8231. Or you can find me in the grocery store.


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