Alderman Derek Thibeault’s recent comments in InkLink on taxes and state funding overlook a fundamental fact: residents can reasonably hold local government accountable when local government continues to increase spending and, as a result, increase the tax burden on taxpayers.
Since 2023, Nashua’s General Fund budget has increased by approximately 20.89%, while Enterprise Fund expenditures have increased by approximately 20.17%. These increases have occurred alongside higher water and sewer rates. In my own review of sewer bills over recent years, I found that my sewer costs increased by approximately 47%. Now, residents are being told that additional increases are necessary.
Mr. Thibeault, like many local officials, points to what is often described as the state’s “downshifting” of costs onto municipalities. While state funding policies certainly affect local budgets, that explanation does not change the fact that local spending decisions directly impact local tax rates. When a municipality expands its budget, taxpayers ultimately bear the cost.
Residents are also being asked to accept the claim that the proposed FY2027 budget represents only a 2.93% increase. However, the budget figures themselves raise questions. The FY2026 budget was $360,683,672, while the proposed FY2027 budget is $389,005,200, an increase of $28,321,528. Based on those figures, the increase is approximately 7.85%, not 2.93% as stated in the FY2027 Budget Book. Taxpayers deserve a clear explanation for this discrepancy.
Mr. Thibeault also notes that New Hampshire ranks near the bottom nationally in the percentage of public education funding provided by the state. What is often omitted from that discussion is that New Hampshire remains among the highest-spending states on a per-pupil basis, with much of that funding coming from local taxpayers. Given that level of spending, residents have a right to examine educational outcomes and ask whether taxpayers are receiving sufficient value for their investment.
Current statewide proficiency rates remain a concern, with approximately 42% of students proficient in mathematics, 52% in reading, and 37% in science. While educators and students work hard under challenging circumstances, these results suggest there is room for improvement. It is not surprising that some families are exploring alternatives such as charter schools, private schools, or homeschooling.
The remainder of Mr. Thibeault’s article focused primarily on promoting Democratic candidates for state office. Voters will ultimately decide which candidates and policies best reflect their priorities. However, political messaging should not substitute for a transparent discussion of municipal spending, taxation, and government accountability.
Mr. Thibeault concluded by stating that this election will determine whether voters continue to follow “failed policies” or move toward a “brave new world.” Regardless of political affiliation, New Hampshire voters should focus on the issues directly affecting their communities: responsible budgeting, reasonable taxation, educational performance, and accountable government. Those are the matters that will have the greatest impact on residents and taxpayers.
