Issues

Problem: In recent years, the legislature has passed policies that have increased taxes and fees on everyday Vermonters through new payroll taxes and increased DMV and professional registration fees. In addition, some policies have unknown fiscal implications like the passage of the global warming solutions act and residential energy standards bills. These initiatives will cost hundreds of millions of dollars.
Solution: Continue to push back on increased spending while utilizing our current revenues in a thoughtful and fiscally responsible manner. The only solution should not be to continue to raise revenues.

Problem: With a looming average education property tax bill increase of 13.8%, the legislature must act on providing an education finance system that Vermonters can understand and afford. We need to more closely align local spending decisions to local tax rates. If we value local control, higher spending districts cannot continue to be subsidized by lower spending districts within the current system.
Solution: Create an education finance system that is more predictable for districts to craft their budgets and be understandable to voters. Crafting a new a baseline funding system determined by the legislature using non-residential and non-property tax revenues in the education fund, plus a homestead local spending tax rate determined by district spending decisions would create a more equitable system for towns across the state.

Problem: Decreased funding for law enforcement has been front and center for the last several years. In some areas, this has contributed to increased crime and decreased prevention. Many social influences impact public safety like addiction, homelessness, and addiction.
Solution: Fully support and fund law enforcement as a key to safe communities. Provide funding to allow for the timely processing of those who’ve committed a crime. Provide services for those who are most vulnerable.

Problem: Vermont’s housing stock is not sufficient for our population. With the high cost of housing and lack of inventory, housing is difficult to secure. Whether you’re renting, a first-time homebuyer or an owner of the same home for many years, the options for change are slim.
Solution: Work with public and private developers to increase the supply of housing. We need to increase the opportunities for renting and home ownership at all ages. Revitalizing Act 250 to be more predictable for developers will work to increase inventory while lowering costs to consumers. Thoughtful development in not just our city centers should be our focus so we can all thrive in our own communities.

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