Effective government and fiscal responsibility start at the local level. So does economic recovery. That's why the priority for Massachusetts today is smart municipal reform.
Taxes and fees rise, while vital public services deteriorate. Cities and towns turn to the state - which faces the same issues. We've seen it again and again: government spends and promises too much in good times, then falls into crisis when the inevitable downturn comes. It's a concern for every family, and for the business community that pays nearly half of local taxes.
We know the reforms we need. Most are obvious. Health insurance, for instance, is the biggest cost driver in municipal finance, but only a few cities (like Springfield) have controlled these costs by joining the more efficient state system.
Recently, the Special Commission on Municipal Relief, with the input of business leaders, municipal officials, educators, and labor leaders, proposed legislation (S.2051/H.1971) that will reduce costs and improve efficiency for municipal governments as they provide vital services such as education, public safety and human services. The Commission's call to "ensure reform measures are adopted before asking taxpayers for additional revenue" is backed by cost-saving reforms that will allow municipalities to meet their obligations while also protecting jobs, the economy and taxpayers.
Smart municipal reform will ensure that state and local governments continue to provide the top-quality services on which the residents of Massachusetts depend. These hard times, which highlight the need for reform, are the best time to move forward.
To see the Special Commission on Legislative Relief's report, CLICK HERE.
To read the full text of S.2051/H.1271 click here. For a bill summary click here.
To email your state policymakers click here.
Brought to you by the Associated Industries of Massachusetts.
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