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Bartlett Selectmen vote to begin semi-annual tax billing under RSA 76:15-b
Summary
The Bartlett Board of Selectmen voted Jan. 28 to switch to semi-annual tax billing under NH RSA 76:15-b, citing higher interest costs for tax anticipation notes and the town's capacity to handle billing in-house; the motion passed unanimously.
On Jan. 28, 2026, the Bartlett Board of Selectmen voted to institute semi-annual property tax billing under New Hampshire RSA 76:15-b.
Chairman Gene Chandler moved to adopt twice-yearly billing, saying the town used to secure very low-interest tax anticipation notes but that “times have changed.” Selectman Ron Munro seconded the motion. The board recorded a roll call vote of GGC - yes, VLG - yes, RTM - yes, and the measure passed.
The board explained the change as a financial decision: volatile and higher interest rates on short-term tax anticipation notes now outweigh the additional in-house costs for producing and mailing two sets of bills. Officials noted the town will incur extra postage, envelopes and staff time, but estimated those costs would still be lower than recent interest expenses.
The motion cites NH RSA 76:15-b as the legal authority for semi-annual billing. The board did not provide a detailed new timeline for billing dates at the meeting; that implementation schedule was not specified in the minutes.
The change follows the board's discussion of municipal financing practices and is intended to reduce borrowing costs going forward. The meeting record shows the selectmen expected staff to carry out the additional clerical work required to produce two bills per year.
