Who we elect to leadership positions in Claremont is critical. But it has nothing to do with national parties, national politics or the cultural and social issues that often divide us.

It is about having competent, smart people who will make decisions based on common sense and in the interest of the people who live and work in Claremont.

We believe in the basics of “Good Governance”. That means accountability, transparency, responsiveness, effectiveness and efficiency and adherence to the rule of law.

Most of all it means participation by as many people in the community as possible.

NH communities like Claremont are in a bind, with a combination of very high tax rates and low properties value. That combination makes it hard to attract newcomers and businesses, which continues the cycle.

The State of NH has played a major role in creating this situation. The state has been balancing its budget by pushing its costs onto local property tax payers, which creates an undue financial burden on local communities.

The answer? Eliminating waste at the local level, while fighting vigorously to get the state to pay its fair share in order to drive down local taxes.