State representatives warn of high local tax rate and outline proposed bills at Peterborough meeting

State Representative Peter Leishman told the Peterborough Select Board on Jan. 7 that the town’s municipal tax rate "is one of the highest in the state," attributing the situation to declining state revenues that reduce aid returned to communities.

Representative Jonah Wheeler, also present, described bills he has proposed, including legislation on the annulment of cannabis charges and a proposal to create a study committee on school start times. Wheeler said he would continue working with party leaders to "open and improve" lines of communication with residents and other legislators.

Residents pressed both representatives about taxes and education policy. Resident Bev Spiro asked why the dividends-and-interest tax was removed; Rep. Leishman said the revenue had been declining and the state removed the tax as of Dec. 31. Resident Loretta Laurenitis raised concerns that private schools receive more funding per pupil than public schools; Rep. Wheeler said he has tried to address that issue but did not expect it to be resolved this legislative season.

ConVal School Board Chair and resident Janine Lesser asked how districts can be better informed about proposed legislation and given opportunities to testify. Rep. Wheeler encouraged collaborative outreach and said residents and boards can make an impact by emailing, calling, and attending committee meetings to provide testimony; Rep. Leishman added that a packed room carries more weight than an empty one.

Select Board Chair Tyler Ward asked how citizens can work with legislators; Rep. Wheeler reiterated the outreach channels and encouraged constituents to contact their representatives directly.

The exchange closed with representatives urging continued community engagement and promising to try to improve communications with residents and school districts.

The Select Board proceeded to its regular agenda after the legislative update.