Committee Summary for House Municipal and County Government (01/30/2026)

Bill/Time	Type	Title	Sponsor
HB1756 00:12:41.839 - 8:11:27 AM	Public Hearing	allowing organizations to file for property tax exemptions once and receive those exemptions unless and until a town assessor finds the organization ineligible for an exemption.	Walker, David(R)[B+]2025
HB1380 00:37:59.200 - 8:36:45 AM	Public Hearing	requiring the assessment of real property and land be based on replacement or cost-based value.	Potenza, Kelley(R)[A]2025
HB1581 02:02:00.800 - 10:00:46 AM	Public Hearing	requiring municipalities to give notice to property owners when the assessed value of their property changes.	Wherry, Robert(R)[A-]2025
HB1137 02:42:34.880 - 10:41:20 AM	Public Hearing	relative to municipal budget committee membership.	Pauer, Diane(R)[A]2025
HB1526 2026333h 03:10:09.439 - 11:08:55 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the adopting of a municipal budget committee and electing members thereof.	Wherry, Robert(R)[A-]2025
HB1213 2026408h 03:17:49.040 - 11:16:35 AM	Public Hearing	relative to the number, selection, and terms of town highway agents.	Wherry, Robert(R)[A-]2025
HB1085 04:03:15.199 - 12:02:01 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the authority of police commissions.	Guzofski, James(R)[B+]2025
HB1516 05:07:58.560 - 1:06:44 PM	Public Hearing	requiring municipalities to produce pie charts, bar charts, and QR codes on property tax bills depicting where and how tax dollars are being allocated.	Labrie, Brian(R)[A-]2025
HB1076 05:49:42.000 - 1:48:28 PM	Public Hearing	relative to authorizing or rescinding the use of electronic ballot counting devices.	DeRoy, Susan(R)[A-]2025
HB1583 06:08:07.280 - 2:06:53 PM	Public Hearing	permitting municipalities to establish special assessment districts for infrastructure improvements.	Sweeney, Joe(R)[A]2025
HB1526 033h 06:35:47.120 - 2:34:33 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the adopting of a municipal budget committee and electing members thereof.	Wherry, Robert(R)[A-]2025
HB1213 07:02:31.520 - 3:01:17 PM	Public Hearing	relative to the number, selection, and terms of town highway agents.	Wherry, Robert(R)[A-]2025

HB1756: Representative David Walker, Rochester Support00:12:41.839 - 8:11:27 AM; Representative Walker introduced HB 1756FN, explaining that it amends the law to make charitable property tax exemptions permanent, with applications filed once every five years instead of annually. This addresses issues in 2023 and 2024 where organizations like churches, educational institutions, and the Wright Museum lost exemptions due to late filings, leading to hardships. The bill requires annual field reviews by assessors to ensure continued qualifying use and aligns with other exemptions like those for the elderly and disabled. It prevents future retroactive abatements and allows municipalities to request additional information as needed.
HB1756: Brody Dea, New Hampshire Municipal Association Information Only00:18:06.320 - 8:16:52 AM; Brody Dea testified that the NHMA is neutral on HB 1756FN. Some assessors requested the bill, appreciating reduced annual filing burdens, while others have concerns about potential increased field review work. The bill could save on mailing and processing costs but might require more assessor time for verifications. Currently, annual applications provide up-to-date information, but for long-standing organizations, less frequent filing reduces administrative burden. Assessors can still request additional information and conduct annual reviews. Dea noted challenges in recruiting volunteers for nonprofits, making timely filings difficult, and highlighted that financial statements remain annual requirements.
HB1756: Jim Misho, Chief Assessor, Town of Hudson Support00:27:03.039 - 8:25:49 AM; Jim Misho supported HB 1756FN, noting past issues with late filings causing organizations to lose exemptions unnecessarily, especially for long-standing entities like 200-year-old churches. He emphasized the bill's guardrails, including annual field reviews to verify use and the ability to request additional information if irregularities are observed. The financial statement (A12) remains annual, while the application (A9) shifts to every five years. This aligns with assessing standards and avoids court disputes. Misho acknowledged that while some skepticism exists, the provisions ensure oversight without annual paperwork burdens.
HB1756: Mr. Reese, Assessor, City of Portsmouth; President, New Hampshire Assessing Association Support00:32:15.360 - 8:31:01 AM; Mr. Reese supported HB 1756FN for its guardrails, including annual property visits and continued annual financial filings (A12). The bill simplifies life for volunteer-run organizations that struggle with timely paperwork, preventing them from becoming taxable due to missed deadlines. Assessors retain prior applications for reference and can request more frequent submissions if needed. It aligns with the five-year exemption review cycle set by the assessing standards board, preserving community oversight while reducing administrative complications for qualifying nonprofits.
HB1380: Representative Kelly Patenza, Stratford District 19 Support00:37:59.200 - 8:36:45 AM; Representative Patenza introduced HB 1380, the Replacement Value Property Assessment Act, and submitted empirical evidence from Rochester showing discrepancies between sales prices and assessments. She aimed to discuss the theory behind using replacement or cost-based values for assessments to address these issues.
HB1380: Representative Kelly Patenza, Stratford District 19 Support00:39:08.800 - 8:37:54 AM; Representative Patenza provides data from Rochester showing discrepancies between assessed values and actual sale prices for manufactured housing, commercial properties, and single-family homes, arguing that current assessments are inflated and harm taxpayers. She criticizes the market-driven assessment system as speculative and unstable, citing historical housing crashes like 2007-2009, and explains how it leads to disproportionate tax burdens on fixed-income residents and seniors. She discusses Rochester's revaluation that increased total valuation by $2.3 billion, resulting in higher taxes despite a lower rate, and contrasts this with Massachusetts cases where overassessments were challenged. Patenza advocates for replacement cost assessment as aligned with NH law, notes support from Avatar Associates for amendments to address implementation issues, and urges passage of HB 1380 to provide structural reform and protect homeowners from market bubbles.
HB1380: Representative Kelly Patenza, Stratford District 19 Support01:04:10.960 - 9:02:56 AM; During questions, Patenza explains that tax abatements do not fix the flawed assessment model and burden taxpayers, many of whom lack knowledge or resources to navigate the process, leading to people leaving NH. She emphasizes the need for systemic change to ensure fair and proportional taxation, preventing foreclosures and corporate buyouts of homes. Responding to concerns about revenue, she argues for government responsibility in curbing irresponsible spending, using Rochester's reserves as an example, and states that replacement cost would assess properties realistically, preventing overassessments like a $30,000 trailer valued at $180,000.
HB1380: Representative Grund Information Only01:07:40.720 - 9:06:26 AM; Representative Grund asks about the bill's impact on tax revenue and rates, noting it wouldn't change the total revenue needed.
HB1380: Representative Kelly Patenza, Stratford District 19 Support01:08:47.120 - 9:07:33 AM; Patenza responds that while taxes will still be levied, the model ensures realistic assessments, citing examples like overvalued trailers forcing fixed-income owners out, and stresses stopping the practice of inflated valuations exceeding sale prices.
HB1380: Representative Stavis Information Only01:10:12.239 - 9:08:58 AM; Representative Stavis asks how the bill addresses corporate investment in single-family homes, which has risen from 6% in 2000 to nearly 20% in 2025, and whether it promotes equity for renters.
HB1380: Representative Joe Sweeney, Salem District 25 Support00:57:02.160 - 8:55:48 AM; Representative Sweeney introduces HB 1583, explaining it allows municipalities to create special assessment districts for infrastructure supporting new development, ensuring costs are borne by benefiting properties rather than all taxpayers. He clarifies it excludes general government buildings, focuses on items like roads and sewers, and enables tax-exempt municipal financing repaid over 10-20 years, promoting public-private partnerships and smart growth without increasing general tax burdens.
HB1380: Representative Davis Information Only00:59:57.200 - 8:58:43 AM; Representative Davis questions the bill's focus on benefiting developers through predictable financing.
HB1380: Representative Joe Sweeney, Salem District 25 Support01:01:05.680 - 8:59:51 AM; Sweeney provides a scenario of redeveloping a racetrack, explaining how the special assessment on district properties funds infrastructure like roads and sewers without burdening the whole municipality, facilitating clean public-private partnerships.
HB1380: Unnamed Renter, Concord Support01:11:28.880 - 9:10:14 AM; The speaker, a lifelong New Hampshire resident and current renter, shared her experience of attempting to buy a home in Concord but backing out due to skyrocketing property values post-COVID, where homes jumped from $300,000 to $500,000-$700,000. She expressed frustration with high interest rates and overvalued properties requiring significant repairs, making homeownership unfeasible. She supports the bill for leveling the playing field in assessments, helping retain residents who embody the 'Live Free or Die' spirit, though acknowledging it won't stop greedy corporations. She blamed previous administrations for creating a system favoring the 'haves' over the 'have nots.'
HB1380: Representative Betzenza Support01:13:39.520 - 9:12:25 AM; Responding to questions, Representative Betzenza explained the bill's formulas for transitioning to 50% replacement cost value were derived from consultations with a Manchester municipal expert and Office of the Secretary of State attorneys. She noted the bill is a less aggressive version of her initial draft, acknowledging over 65% of towns contract out assessments using databases rather than personal inspections. She emphasized the need for input from those implementing assessments and is open to further refinements. On 'like kind' quality in assessments, she clarified it's based on replacement cost if the house burned down or was foreclosed, not intricate details like wood density. She affirmed having an expert for refinements and is willing to work on technical aspects, stressing the need for bold action on housing and taxation issues. She committed to providing examples of other states using replacement cost and demonstrating how it's calculated via spreadsheets, noting current systems intertwine market and replacement values but are skewed by sales not matching assessments.
HB1380: Representative Jonah O'Brien Wheeler, Towns of Peterborough and Sharon Support01:26:43.040 - 9:25:29 AM; As co-sponsor, Representative Wheeler affirmed support for the bill, highlighting insane assessment rises pricing lifelong residents out of communities like Peterborough. He criticized market-driven criminal speculation, referencing the 2008 crash with no prosecutions or regulations, leading to artificial value increases. He argued shifting to real assessments based on replacement cost, not speculation, would address tax burdens without necessarily increasing municipal revenue, as budgets are voter-approved. He noted constituents' complaints about assessments exacerbating tax issues and believed the bill's intent merits legislative refinement despite imperfections. On questions, he explained higher assessments increase town revenue from taxes; if assessments drop, tax rates might rise but budgets would adjust in the next cycle, giving citizens a say via town meetings. He stressed local control but noted assessments lack public input compared to tax rates.
HB1380: Mr. Mike Bourne, Rye Support01:40:15.280 - 9:39:01 AM; Testifying primarily on another bill but commenting on HB 1380, Mr. Bourne from Rye described local issues like ranches and capes being replaced by million-dollar homes, contributing to confusion in assessments. He highlighted public misunderstanding of assessment processes, challenging committee members to navigate town websites for appeal info. Drawing from 15 years on the Rye Civic League and select board meetings, he noted low voter turnout (20% pre-Civic League efforts) and apathy, emphasizing the need for better education on taxes, DRA laws, and mechanics, as most residents are uninformed despite budgets being approved by minorities.
HB1380: Jim Misiano, Chief Assessor, Town of Hudson Oppose01:44:12.000 - 9:42:58 AM; Opposing the bill as written, Mr. Misiano reserved full comments pending potential amendments or work sessions. He noted the intent seems to shift valuation but highlighted far-reaching statutory interplays, including removal of 16 market value exceptions like current use, farm structures, and low-income housing credits. On Nevada, he clarified it's a cost approach state but still market-driven for land, costs, and depreciation. He warned of significant changes to computer-assisted mass appraisal systems (e.g., Avatar, Vision Appraisal used by 80% of state), requiring DRA to establish new schedules, and potential unintended consequences without a fiscal note.
HB1380: Jennifer Ramsey, Tax Policy Counsel, Department of Revenue Administration Information Only01:48:15.040 - 9:47:01 AM; Providing neutral analysis, Ms. Ramsey explained that decreasing assessments via replacement cost wouldn't reduce overall tax burdens, as tax rates would rise to meet voted municipal budgets; it might redistribute burdens, with some properties (e.g., utilities) assessed higher under replacement cost. Implementation would take years, realistically starting in tax year 2028, involving processes, cost schedules, rules, assessor training, and CAMA updates. She suggested changing 'tax bills' to 'tax years' for clarity, eliminating redundant DRA appeal form language (existing BTLA processes suffice), and clarifying reporting requirements on appeals and value differences, as DRA lacks some data. Unaddressed issues include 5-year revaluations (likely still needed) and equalization studies for statewide education tax, which rely on market value. She noted technical challenges but openness to amendments, study commissions, or stakeholder input before crossover.
HB1380: Representative Gilman Information Only01:55:05.679 - 9:53:51 AM; Asked about whether changes in property value affect the mill rate set by towns. Expressed confusion on millage rates and tax calculations, noting past experiences with rate changes.
HB1380: Jennifer Ramsey, Tax Policy Counsel, Department of Revenue Administration Information Only01:55:05.679 - 9:53:51 AM; Explained that the mill rate is set by each town to multiply property value for tax calculation. Clarified it differs from rates set by DRA and offered to follow up with more details on millage rates.
HB1380: Representative Grund Information Only01:56:18.719 - 9:55:04 AM; Inquired if the bill would require detailed listings of home features like granite floors for replacement cost assessments, potentially needing annual inspections inside homes.
HB1380: Jennifer Ramsey, Tax Policy Counsel, Department of Revenue Administration Information Only01:56:18.719 - 9:55:04 AM; Noted that details of appraisals need further work in the bill. Mentioned use of cost manuals for regionalized costs in lending and insurance, without needing granular measurements or home entries, though details could arise in appeals.
HB1380: Representative Dolan Information Only01:57:17.760 - 9:56:03 AM; Confirmed that overall tax collection remains constant, so decreases for some mean increases for others unless town spending is reduced.
HB1380: Jennifer Ramsey, Tax Policy Counsel, Department of Revenue Administration Information Only01:57:17.760 - 9:56:03 AM; Agreed that tax bills balance community-wide unless spending decreases.
HB1380: Representative Davis Information Only01:58:19.840 - 9:57:05 AM; Questioned the absence of a fiscal note on the bill and how fiscal notes are assigned.
HB1380: Jennifer Ramsey, Tax Policy Counsel, Department of Revenue Administration Information Only01:58:19.840 - 9:57:05 AM; Suggested asking LBA, possibly due to timing near opening day when incomplete work was rushed to committees.
HB1380: Unidentified Speaker Information Only01:59:33.119 - 9:58:19 AM; Recommended the 'Understanding New Hampshire Property Taxes' manual from the Assessing Standards Board, available on DRA and municipal websites, covering tax rates and assessing laws.
HB1380: Representative Majori Information Only01:59:33.119 - 9:58:19 AM; Requested the link to the manual.
HB1380: Representative Gilman Information Only02:00:23.840 - 9:59:09 AM; Reported remote testimony: 7 in support, 4 opposed; today's blue sheets: 3 in support, 1 opposed.
HB1581: Representative Robert Weary, Hillsboro District 13, Hudson Support02:02:00.800 - 10:00:46 AM; Introduced the bill to ensure notification of interim assessment changes outside municipality-wide appraisals, preventing surprises on tax bills. Explained current RSAs cover notices for 5-year and annual appraisals but not interim changes due to errors or property modifications. Noted online systems may not update timely, suggesting simple postcard notices with contact info. Addressed fiscal note as excessive, emphasizing benefits for owners and municipalities in correcting errors early.
HB1581: Representative Walker Information Only02:06:25.199 - 10:05:11 AM; Asked if notices would be sent every time property data cards change, affecting assessments.
HB1581: Representative Robert Weary, Hillsboro District 13, Hudson Support02:06:25.199 - 10:05:11 AM; Clarified notices only for interim changes between municipality-wide assessments, not for those covered by public notices under 758A/B. Gave example of building permit additions triggering revaluation between cycles.
HB1581: Representative Majori Information Only02:07:30.239 - 10:06:16 AM; Asked if quarterly pickups in preparation for 5-year revals in Northampton would require notices, noting assessments occur only at reval time.
HB1581: Representative Robert Weary, Hillsboro District 13, Hudson Support02:07:30.239 - 10:06:16 AM; Confirmed quarterly pickups do not trigger notices since assessments happen at 5-year reval.
HB1581: Representative Dolan Information Only02:08:47.360 - 10:07:33 AM; Shared stories of assessment errors leading to unaffordable taxes, asked about ease of accessing abatement process at town halls.
HB1581: Representative Robert Weary, Hillsboro District 13, Hudson Support02:08:47.360 - 10:07:33 AM; Based on experience, many don't know the process or where to start, suggesting need for education. Noted complaints in Hudson budget meetings due to lack of awareness.
HB1581: Representative Elward Information Only02:10:04.480 - 10:08:50 AM; Noted earlier testimony on towns using systems like Avitar with limited staff to assist.
HB1581: Representative Robert Weary, Hillsboro District 13, Hudson Support02:10:04.480 - 10:08:50 AM; Yielded to tax assessor on process details, focused bill on preventing surprises in interim changes, not broader issues.
HB1581: Representative Fr Information Only02:12:26.400 - 10:11:12 AM; Asked if taxpayers can dispute increases after notice but before tax bill, and how.
HB1581: Representative Robert Weary, Hillsboro District 13, Hudson Support02:12:26.400 - 10:11:12 AM; Affirmed right to discuss and question basis of unexpected assessments before billing, based on personal experience.
HB1581: Representative Gilman Information Only02:13:43.520 - 10:12:29 AM; Asked if tax bills include dispute info and assessor meetings during re-evals.
HB1581: Chair Information Only02:13:43.520 - 10:12:29 AM; Deemed question not germane, as bill focuses on interim notifications, not general revals.
HB1581: Representative Robert Weary, Hillsboro District 13, Hudson Support02:13:43.520 - 10:12:29 AM; Unsure of exact tax bill details but possible some info included; varies by town.
HB1581: Representative Walker Information Only02:14:56.800 - 10:13:42 AM; Questioned if clerical/mailing costs for notices in large cities like Rochester would be extravagant, especially for frequent changes like permits.
HB1581: Representative Robert Weary, Hillsboro District 13, Hudson Support02:14:56.800 - 10:13:42 AM; Estimated fewer interim assessments than municipality-wide; hundreds of postcards unlikely to cost $10,000. Open to amendments for clarity.
HB1581: Charles Reese, City of Portsmouth, President NH Assessing Association Oppose02:17:37.040 - 10:16:23 AM; Opposed as written due to vagueness on triggers for notifications, e.g., minor current use changes or ongoing developments like 66-unit condos requiring multiple notices. Suggested local option with percentage thresholds (e.g., 5-10% in Plymouth). Noted challenges for small towns with contract assessors and 14-day notice timeline when values finalize near tax bills. Offered to email details.
HB1581: Representative Majori Information Only02:19:40.719 - 10:18:26 AM; Asked for range of percentage thresholds for notifications based on experience.
HB1581: Charles Reese, City of Portsmouth, President NH Assessing Association Oppose02:19:40.719 - 10:18:26 AM; Believed Plymouth uses 5-10% trigger but unsure of exact.
HB1581: Eric Power, Brookline Support02:21:34.080 - 10:20:20 AM; Supported as common sense for interim assessments between revals, good for taxpayers and towns. Shared personal experiences of errors: house length mismeasurement, unpermitted basement finishes (twice), leading to overpayments and abatement delays. Noted untimely online updates and issues in other towns like Hollis, Milford. Argued $1 postcard prevents town losses from corrections; referenced SB 225. Emphasized fair taxation and minimizing problems.
HB1581: Unidentified Representative Information Only02:25:19.600 - 10:24:05 AM; Asked if unnoticed mistakes could lead to overpayment for years if owners don't understand tax cards.
HB1581: Eric Power, Brookline Support02:25:19.600 - 10:24:05 AM; Agreed, noting assessment cards use acronyms hard to read; value jumps might alert owners, but online checks are hit-or-miss. Shared example of unexpected lot quality upgrade during shed addition.
HB1581: Jim Misho, Chief Assessor, Hudson Oppose02:28:00.240 - 10:26:46 AM; Jim Misho expresses opposition to HB 1581FN primarily due to the unfunded mandate it imposes under Article 28A, requiring changes to existing programs without state budget allocation. He notes that towns like Hudson lack funding for such notifications, which are currently included with tax bills. He highlights that 76% of New Hampshire's property assessment data is already online via providers like Vision (42 municipalities, 258,585 accounts) and Avatar (150 municipalities, 280,230 accounts), allowing daily updates if desired by municipalities. Similar bills (HB 144 in 2019 and HB 503 in 2017) failed due to costs, including postcards, mailing, and labor. He discusses RSA 76:16 for tax abatements and abatement overlay accounts (RSA 75), which provide funding for errors without additional notifications. Tax bills already include information on abatements per RSA 76:11A. Recent changes in RSA 75:8C removed individual mailed notices in revaluation years, replacing them with public notices. Hudson sends notices voluntarily. He questions the practical benefit of the bill given existing online access and statutory timelines for warrants and abatements, which don't start appeal clocks early. During Q&A, he explains budgeting for abatements, historical failures of similar bills, and that the bill addresses notification, not spending issues.
HB1137: Representative Diane Power, Brookline, Mason, Greenville Support02:42:34.880 - 10:41:20 AM; As prime sponsor, Representative Diane Power introduces HB 1137, which amends RSA 32:15 to make members of governing bodies, school boards, or village districts appointed to municipal budget committees ex officio non-voting members, allowing them to designate alternates in the same role. This aligns with 2024's HB 394 for cooperative school districts (RSA 195:1,12), promoting impartiality, consistent oversight, and reducing conflicts of interest by removing voting rights from those who propose or implement budgets. It ensures budget committees operate independently while retaining expertise, consistent with HB 488. The bill fosters transparency, accountability, and public confidence, urging passage for uniform good government practice. During Q&A, she clarifies the bill applies only to municipal budget committees, not advisory ones, and addresses inconsistencies between municipal and cooperative school district rules. She explains it prevents double voting (on governing body and budget committee) and maintains liaison roles without voting influence.
HB1137: Stephen Bourne, Rye Support02:50:26.399 - 10:49:12 AM; Stephen Bourne supports HB 1137 for elected town-wide budget committees like in Rye, which has three village districts. Village district reps (elected by subsets) currently vote equally with town-wide elected members, leading to over-representation and vote trading. Select board and school board reps, elected by the full community, add to quorum challenges as they often miss meetings, making quorums hard to achieve. Making ex officio members non-voting addresses over-representation and eases quorum issues. Rye plans a warrant article to adjust to five members post-passage. During Q&A, he notes potential tie votes but assures adjustment via warrant.
HB1137: Norm Royce, Northwood Support02:53:26.000 - 10:52:12 AM; Norm Royce, an elected member of Northwood's 17-member municipal budget committee, supports HB 1137. Appointed members include one each from school and governing body, plus three village reps elected by small votes (10-20), versus his 400 votes town-wide. This imbalance means low-vote village reps have equal voting power, which is unrepresentative. At a recent meeting, they discussed the bill, highlighting the absurdity. Village reps often vote no on final budgets without input, influencing ballots unduly. The bill ensures votes reflect broader representation. During Q&A, he confirms village commissioners could run town-wide for voting seats.
HB1137: Brody Dea, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose02:56:35.040 - 10:55:21 AM; Brody Dea opposes HB 1137, arguing it conflicts with the definition of ex officio members who automatically join with full rights tied to their office. Making appointed select board members ex officio non-voting denies equal roles and responsibilities as at-large members, who must attend and participate fully. Cooperative school districts differ as they span multiple municipalities, unlike single-municipality budget committees. While acknowledging small village district concerns, decisions impact those districts significantly. Select and school board reps need full voting rights, as per decades-old RSA 32. Recommends significant amendment or ITL. During Q&A, he notes nothing prohibits non-voting members from influencing via speech, but emphasizes true ex officio status requires voting.
HB1137: Eric Power, Brookline Support03:00:45.200 - 10:59:31 AM; Eric Power supports HB 1137, clarifying it applies only to official municipal budget committees under RSA 32:12, not advisory ones under RSA 32:24. HB 394 last year made cooperative school district reps non-voting ex officio, reducing committees from eight to seven voting members. Current law mandates governing body members on committees, creating conflicts per HB 488, which prohibits it elsewhere. It violates one-person-one-vote by giving double votes (governing body and budget committee) and allows village district subsets to control town-wide budgets. Prevents horse-trading between school and town budgets. Ex officio non-voting allows input as liaisons without voting. During Q&A, he addresses village district impacts, noting they retain their own budgets but shouldn't double-vote; suggests committee decide on 'ex officio' term for consistency; confirms only elected/appointed at-large and ex officio members, no department heads like fire chief.
HB1526 2026333h: Representative Robert Wear, Hudson Support03:10:09.439 - 11:08:55 AM; Representative Wear introduces HB 1526, explaining its purpose to provide clarity and consistency in adopting or rescinding a municipal budget committee. He outlines section one, which prescribes ballot wording for various scenarios including appointments and elections of initial members, with the amendment adding a fourth scenario. Section two adds wording for rescission under RSA 321:4,V. Section three clarifies election or appointment of initial members at large and allows changes to committee size and selection method. Section four extends the school board's appointment period to 30 days. Section five eliminates redundant RSA 321:4,IV. He requests support for the bill to ensure clear processes.
HB1526 2026333h: Representative Majori Information Only03:14:24.239 - 11:13:10 AM; Representative Majori questions Wear about potential conflict with HB 1309, which prohibits narrative or commentary in warrant articles. He points to the phrase 'to assist voters in the prudent appropriation of public funds' as possibly fitting that description. Wear responds that he is unsure without seeing the other bill but believes the wording is appropriate. Majori notes it may already appear in existing RSA.
HB1213 2026408h: Representative Robert Wear, Hudson Support03:17:49.040 - 11:16:35 AM; Representative Wear introduces HB 1213 to clarify terms and election aspects for highway agents (road agents), repealing outdated provisions for large towns from 1983. He discusses the amendment addressing expert agents contracted under RSA 231:64. Section one updates RSA 231:62 on terminology, removes large town references, and covers number and terms. The amendment adds provisions for expert agents. RSA 231:62A is expanded for number, selection method (appointment or election), ballot wording, and non-official ballot processes. Section three adds elected highway agents to RSA 669:17. The amendment modifies RSA 231:64 for expert agents' reporting and voting text, renumbers sections, and updates applicability. He requests support for clarification.
HB1213 2026408h: Representative Stavis Information Only03:21:29.520 - 11:20:15 AM; Representative Stavis asks what problem the bill solves beyond technical updates. Wear explains confusion in the statutes, citing NHMA statements from 2017-2018 on unclear sections and the need for specific ballot wording to clarify elections.
HB1085: Representative Jim Gazowski Jr., Northwood/Epping Support04:03:15.199 - 12:02:01 PM; Representative Gazowski introduces HB 1085 to clarify the statutory role of town police commissions, defining duties like personnel decisions, rules, and pay structure while keeping fiscal authority with the municipality. The current 40-year-old RSA has gray areas leading to differing interpretations. The bill updates based on experience to prevent confusion among commissions, select boards, budget committees, and voters. It applies only to towns, not cities, and affects a limited number of towns but emphasizes clarity. It does not affect pay, operations, or discipline but ensures funds are spent as approved with unused funds reverting to municipal control. He requests passage as a modernization and clarification bill.
HB1085: Representative Stavis Information Only04:07:02.640 - 12:05:48 PM; Representative Stavis questions why the bill states police commissions 'shall not be deemed a governing body' if they are not already considered as such. Gazowski explains it adds clarity to the existing RSA, as over 40 years, varying municipal interpretations have arisen due to unclear guidelines, and the bill aligns practices across towns.
HB1085: Representative Elwood Information Only04:09:33.040 - 12:08:19 PM; Representative Elwood seeks confirmation that the statute grants the commission exclusive authority over hiring, compensation structures, and internal rules while restricting fund usage, requesting more clarity on the direction of the question.
HB1085: Representative Grund Information Only04:10:56.800 - 12:09:42 PM; Representative Grund questions the sponsor about lines 18 and 19 of the bill, seeking clarification on what 'only to support those positions' means for funds appropriated for vacant police positions. The sponsor explains that it restricts spending to the specific line items appropriated, preventing the police commission from treating the budget as an overall pot like other departments, but the select board can handle transfers.
HB1085: Representative Stavis Information Only04:12:58.720 - 12:11:44 PM; Representative Stavis follows up on section four, suggesting simpler language that no police commission may expend funds without governing body approval, noting it would clarify the intent. The sponsor agrees to consider an amendment for that.
HB1085: Representative Majori Information Only04:14:02.000 - 12:12:48 PM; Representative Majori asks if the chief could use vacant position funds to buy vests for a full complement without having the full staff. The sponsor clarifies the bill aims to standardize and clarify authority without restricting function, eliminating gray areas in spending.
HB1085: Representative Elwood Information Only04:15:12.399 - 12:13:58 PM; Representative Elwood follows up on accountability, asking where it lies if budgetary discretion is constrained by statute while operational control is with an unelected commission, and the governing body is responsible to taxpayers. The sponsor seeks clarification but notes the bill aligns with existing structures.
HB1085: David Stevens, Police Commissioner, City of Rochester Oppose04:16:50.960 - 12:15:36 PM; David Stevens, an eight-year police commissioner in Rochester, opposes the bill, emphasizing that police commissions are elected by citizens and trusted to make local decisions. He argues paragraph 4 undermines local control, especially amid staffing challenges, and sees no problem to fix since commissions work well with councils and can be voted out if mismanaging funds. He notes Rochester returned over $400,000 last year due to vacancies and needs flexibility for bonuses or other needs without state interference.
HB1085: Mr. Sidi, Police Commissioner, Town of Newington Oppose04:25:23.199 - 12:24:09 PM; Mr. Sidi, a first-year police commissioner in Newington, opposes HB 1085, stating it restricts commissions to administrative roles, stripping budgetary authority essential for balancing law enforcement needs with community values. He highlights good relations with selectmen and public, and urges collaboration on reforms that strengthen local governance. He explains using unencumbered funds from vacant positions to buy cruisers or equipment, with selectboard notification, to avoid future tax increases, and notes most commissioners oppose the bill.
HB1085: Mike Biladoo, Chief of Police, Newington Police Department Oppose04:43:26.878 - 12:42:12 PM; Chief Biladoo opposes HB 1085, stating that the Newington Police Commission, established under RSA 105-C since 1987, plays a vital role in appointing, hiring, compensating, and removing personnel while ensuring due process. The commission oversees appropriations, expenditures, and the budgetary process monthly, acting as a citizen review board and governing body for the department. He argues the bill removes their authority, particularly budgetary responsibilities, by prohibiting expenditure of unencumbered funds. Not all towns have such commissions—only about 10 in the state—and they are optional via community vote. The commission is involved in decision-making on policies, procedures, hiring, and firing. If spending issues arise, the commission can be rescinded under 105-C:7. He requests the bill be found inexpedient to legislate. During questioning, he clarifies that the commission makes financial decisions and advises the select board, providing flexibility like reallocating salary funds for hiring ads amid recruitment challenges. He views the commission as the governing body, not requiring select board approval for transfers, and notes they do not use unencumbered funds beyond contracts except for exceptional performance compensation, not bonuses.
HB1085: Paul Duchaine, Project Manager, Town of Newington, on behalf of Board of Selectmen Oppose04:55:10.160 - 12:53:56 PM; Mr. Duchaine testifies on behalf of the Newington Board of Selectmen in opposition to HB 1085, arguing it removes fiscal responsibility from elected police commissioners, potentially leading to similar erosions for other commissions like library trustees or trustees of the trust fund. He emphasizes that local control is essential, placing decisions closest to the issues, and that commissions are best positioned to understand fiscal challenges. The board has a strong working relationship with the police commission and urges the committee to find the bill inexpedient to legislate (ITL). During questioning, he notes the bill's ambiguity on ultimate authority in cases of court challenges or mismanagement, suggesting it might extend to the select board under RSA 32, but remains unclear.
HB1085: Mr. Daes, New Hampshire Municipal Association Information Only04:57:33.120 - 12:56:19 PM; Representing the New Hampshire Municipal Association, which is neutral and monitoring HB 1085, Mr. Daes provides clarifying information. The bill impacts towns under RSA 105-C and potentially cities via RSA 47:1, which grants cities town authorities; some cities may have police commissions in their charters. There are at least 10-12 police commissions statewide, with varying adoption methods (elected, appointed by governor, or by governing body). New language in lines 3-5 ambiguously excludes commissions from the Municipal Budget Act (RSA 32), possibly limiting or exempting budget authority. Lines 15-22 limit line-item transfers from salary lines for other uses, without requiring governing body approval, though this could change interpretations. Police commissions need flexibility like other entities (e.g., parks commissions, library trustees), with oversight via public meetings, budget reviews, and governing body attendance. During questioning, he compares to other commissions with no transfer limitations, notes RSA 47:1 allows cities to adopt RSA 105-C without charter changes, and confirms cities can establish commissions via statute or charter.
HB1516: Representative Brian Lee, Bedford/Hillsboro 2 Support05:07:58.560 - 1:06:44 PM; Representative Lee introduced HB 1516, explaining that it aims to provide taxpayers with clearer context on property tax bills through simple charts and optional QR codes, similar to utility bills. He emphasized that the bill does not mandate additional costs, color printing, or new hardware, as most municipal software already tracks the data and requires only a few clicks to generate visuals. Leadership in Bedford supports it for reducing administrative burdens via self-service transparency. He urged the committee to pass the bill and answered questions on QR code functionality, technology changes, links to minutes, narratives, and compatibility with various municipal systems.
HB1516: Representative John Schneller, Bedford/Hillsboro 2 Support05:23:17.120 - 1:22:03 PM; Representative Schneller spoke in favor of HB 1516, noting his involvement in meetings with Bedford's town manager and school superintendent, who supported and contributed to the bill's language. He confirmed that Bedford uses Munis software, which has the capability to add graphics to tax bills, though it might require a module. He argued that this simple change promotes uniformity, transparency, and consistency statewide, leading to higher taxpayer satisfaction and fewer inbound calls to municipal offices by directing citizens to websites.
HB1516: Eric Power, Brookline Support05:32:50.718 - 1:31:36 PM; Eric Power supported HB 1516 as a common-sense measure requiring links to websites on property tax bills and public posting if no website exists. He argued it's simple to create pie charts and line graphs using tools like Excel or Google Sheets, taking minimal time without needing extra staff or Munis. He explained the pie chart would have few slices for major categories like state education tax, school tax, municipal tax, county tax, and village districts. He noted that minutes for SB2 towns and other reports are publicly available, and narratives could be added optionally. This would make budget information easily accessible, helping voters understand where their money goes without much effort.
HB1516: Brody Duchesne, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose05:37:34.400 - 1:36:20 PM; Brody Duchesne opposed HB 1516 on behalf of NHMA, citing it as an unfunded mandate adding reporting requirements with limited context, especially since the state doesn't cover startup costs. He noted that individuals could create such reports from public data, avoiding administrative burdens on municipalities. Not all information is readily available, requiring coordination with school districts, counties, or village districts, which could delay compliance. Some small municipalities lack websites and rely on private email or volunteers. He suggested amendments like making it optional (changing 'shall' to 'may'), adding voter petition options, including state revenues adjusted for inflation in graphs, and updating subsection D for correct meeting minutes. He acknowledged the bill was redrafted after NHMA's fiscal note on an earlier version.
HB1516: Kate Hann, Coos County Oppose05:44:36.240 - 1:43:22 PM; Kate Hann testified on behalf of Coos County, which opposes HB 1516 due to the administrative burden of generating up to 25 separate reports for 23 unincorporated places, Livermore in Grafton County, and county information. Unlike a single town like Bedford, this uniquely affects Coos County. She noted this impact was unexpected by the association. She would likely support an amendment changing 'shall' to 'may' but deferred on technical details like municipal software.
HB1076: Jim Gazoffski Jr., Representative Rockingham District 1 (Northwood and Nottingham) Information Only05:49:42.000 - 1:48:28 PM; Introduced the bill on behalf of the prime sponsor, Representative Droy. Explained that the bill allows the legislative body of any municipality to authorize or rescind the use of electronic ballot counting devices.
HB1076: Eric Power, Brookline Support05:50:55.600 - 1:49:41 PM; Spoke in favor of HB 1076, describing it as a simple bill that empowers voters in towns to decide on using voting machines via an official ballot question. Noted that in cities, the decision remains with the mayor and board of aldermen. Highlighted the lack of a current rescission mechanism in law, which this bill addresses for all municipalities. Mentioned past warrant articles attempting to address this issue and emphasized giving power to voters, especially since machines can be expensive and not always suitable for small towns. Recommended passage.
HB1076: Brody Dees, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose05:54:00.638 - 1:52:46 PM; Opposed HB 1076, arguing it shifts the decision on electronic ballot counting devices from the governing body to the legislative body (voters at town meeting). Expressed concerns about placing the authorization or rescission on the official ballot under RSA 39:2, which is for electing officers, potentially requiring special ballots in non-official ballot towns. Suggested the question should be on the warrant for debate at town meeting. Noted current funding oversight by the legislative body via warrant articles and an existing defunding process for rescission. Questioned whether the legislative body or governing body, in coordination with the town clerk and moderator, should decide for efficiency and cost control. Responded to questions on potential back-and-forth rescissions affecting budgets, ambiguity in the bill's language regarding ballot law commission approval, and compensation for election volunteers.
HB1583: Representative Sweeney, Prime Sponsor Information Only06:08:07.280 - 2:06:53 PM; Resumed testimony on HB 1583, explaining differences from TIF districts: special assessments allow immediate recoupment of debt service from district properties, unlike TIFs which rely on future value increases. Distinguished from impact fees, noting this is for on-site infrastructure like roads, pipes, and parking within developments, financed via municipal bonds but paid by the district. Addressed questions on combining with host community agreements, applicability to private properties or HOAs (envisioning public servicing post-construction with long-term maintenance via taxes), fractional impacts (better suited for impact fees), passing costs to buyers, business districts (requires municipal balance to avoid deterring businesses), and sufficiency of existing RSAs (this bill provides a cleaner, immediate vehicle). Clarified liens stay with properties until paid off and suggested excluding eligibility for 79E relief or brownfield grants from assessments to avoid double-dipping.
HB1526 033h: Eric Power, Brookline Support06:35:47.120 - 2:34:33 PM; Supported HB 1526, drawing from his experience chairing a study committee in Brookline that examined budget committees statewide. Highlighted unclear current law leading to inconsistent adoption processes across SB2, charter, and traditional towns. Explained the bill clarifies adoption, election/appointment methods (Cases A-D for initial and ongoing terms), changing member numbers or selection methods, rescission wording from RSA 32:2, and aligns timelines for cooperative school districts. Noted amendment 033h adds omitted Case D. Addressed questions on transitioning advisory to statutory committees (via this process, replacing advisory with official) and RSA 32:15:1 (bill references without changing it). Recommended ought to pass as amended.
HB1526 033h: Rep. Major Information Only06:44:23.120 - 2:43:09 PM; Rep. Major raises a question about whether the bill should reference RSA 32:15-1 regarding the composition of the budget committee, noting the specified range of members and seeking clarification on the procedure.
HB1526 033h: Committee Member (unnamed) Information Only06:44:23.120 - 2:43:09 PM; An unnamed committee member explains RSA 32:15-1, which details that the budget committee consists of 3 to 12 members at large, elected or appointed, serving staggered terms, plus members from the governing body and school board.
HB1526 033h: Legal Expert or Sponsor (unnamed) Information Only06:45:31.040 - 2:44:17 PM; The expert clarifies that current law requires following RSA 32:14 and 32:15 for adopting a budget committee, and the number of members (3-12) is governed by 32:15-1. Suggests the reference might not be needed but could be added via amendment if desired.
HB1526 033h: Rep. Gilman Information Only06:46:38.958 - 2:45:24 PM; Rep. Gilman follows up on Rep. Major's question regarding subparagraph A, lines 6-9, asking if the blank number for committee size needs to reference 32:15, and notes it might be minutia to fill in the blanks.
HB1526 033h: Legal Expert or Sponsor (unnamed) Information Only06:47:45.360 - 2:46:31 PM; The expert affirms that the number is between 3 and 12 as per 32:15-1, and while a reference to 32:15 for procedure could be added for clarity, it's already covered by law.
HB1526 033h: Brody Dees, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose06:48:33.520 - 2:47:19 PM; Brody Dees opposes HB 1526 as introduced, explaining it overhauls the adoption process for budget committees under RSA 32:14, inadvertently citing the official ballot instead of the referenda form. He details issues: Section 1 replaces straightforward voting by ballot with a process requiring the question on the official ballot under RSA 39:2, problematic for traditional town meetings without official ballots, as it mandates special ballots without time limits. Section 2 adds a fourth question via amendment for rescinding, which is fine. Section 3 allows election of staggered terms but risks creating a committee without seated members, complicating enforcement of laws like the 10% rule in RSA 32:18. Section 5 repeals RSA 32:14:4, which allows amending committee size and selection, potentially disrupting accommodations for different government forms. Recommends working with legal counsel or the association for warrant articles.
HB1526 033h: Rep. Gilman Information Only06:53:13.840 - 2:51:59 PM; Rep. Gilman asks if establishing a budget committee is similar to approving a charter commission, then electing members the next year.
HB1526 033h: Brody Dees, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose06:54:14.000 - 2:53:00 PM; Dees explains current law expects immediate functionality via moderator appointment or floor nominations, accommodating both SB2 and traditional forms; suggests updating law to delay functions until election but notes the purpose of appointments for continuity.
HB1526 033h: Madam Chair Information Only06:55:17.840 - 2:54:03 PM; The Chair seeks clarification on SB2 vs. traditional town meetings, noting some small towns like Chatham don't use official ballots, and asks if they would use printed ballots for the question.
HB1526 033h: Brody Dees, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose06:56:38.478 - 2:55:24 PM; Dees clarifies that the bill mandates a 'special ballot' for non-official ballot towns, which is undefined and concerning; prefers placing the question as a warrant article to fit current town meeting operations, avoiding changes that disrupt traditional processes.
HB1526 033h: Rep. Grund Information Only06:58:44.558 - 2:57:30 PM; Rep. Grund asks if there are towns struggling with creating, rescinding, or amending budget committees.
HB1526 033h: Brody Dees, New Hampshire Municipal Association Oppose06:59:42.638 - 2:58:28 PM; Dees states no knowledge of such struggles; the association provides legal support and publications to assist municipalities.
HB1213: Eric Power, Brookline Support07:02:31.520 - 3:01:17 PM; Eric Power supports HB 1213, which clarifies laws on town highway agents' number, selection, and terms. In 2017, Brookline's study committee struggled with unclear laws when transitioning from road agent to DPW director; consulted 23 other towns facing similar issues. The bill eliminates the outdated 4,500-resident threshold from the 1970s, making rules universal. Default is one elected agent for a one-year term, but towns can vote for multiple agents with 1-3 year staggered terms, elected or appointed by selectmen. Alternatively, appoint an expert agent at selectmen's pleasure, like a contractor. Clarifies confusing language in RSA 231:62, 62A, 62, and 64 for adopting, rescinding, and changing agents. References the Municipal Association's 'A Hard Road to Travel' document highlighting ambiguities. Aims to ease selection of appropriate highway agents for towns.

Pauer, Diane(Chairman)(R)[A]2025	Bjelobrk, Marie Louise(Clerk)(R)[B+]2025	MacDonald, John(V Chairman)(R)[B+]2025
Germana, Dylan(D)[D-]2025	Fracht, David(D)[D-]2025	Guthrie, Joseph(R)[C]2025
Gilman, Julie(D)[D-]2025	Grund, Stephanie(D)[F]2025	Stavis, Laurel(D)[CT]2025
Karasinski, Sly(R)[B]2025	Maggiore, Jim(D)[CT]2025	Dolan, Tom(R)[B]2025
Aylward, Deborah(R)[B+]2025	Walker, David(R)[B+]2025	Colby, Eleana (D)[F]2025
Girard, Dale(D)[C-]2025	Franz, Linda(R)[B]2025	Murphy, Denis(R)[B+]2025