House Bill 590 became law without the Governor’s signature on June 29th, establishing a Committee to review NH’s participation in federal grant-in-aid programs, which on Nov 1; recommended NH should stop accepting federal grants. Rather than offer my perspective, here are the recommended policy changes for you to interpret firsthand. The full report can be found at http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/statstudcomm/reports/2069.pdf.
“EDUCATION: This Committee is at a loss to understand why the general court ever thought that federal involvement in public education could ever be other than harmful both to the quality of education, the public fisc, and the independence of the state of New Hampshire within the federal system. Even before the Supreme Court’s Claremont series of education funding decisions attempted to impose centralized state control of education by oligarchic ukase, there was such a long tradition of local control and funding of education in this state that it would seem that our elected representatives would reflexively have viewed with the gravest misgivings so much further a removal of control as must inevitably be the result of opening the tent of New Hampshire to the camel’s nose of the first dollar of “assistance” from a federal Department of Education. By now, in the aftermath of 35 years’ experience with the federal Department of Education and 15 years experience with Claremont II, it must be clear to anyone not a member of or politically beholden to a teachers’ union that Thomas Jefferson, father of the University of Virginia, had it right when he declared in 1816 that the notion that schools would be better run by “any other general authority of the government than by the parents within each ward [is] a belief against all experience.” This Committee recommends that the general court extricate the state of New Hampshire from all manner of federal programs directly or indirectly affecting public education and the functioning and operations of public schools as soon as the expiration of current contractual commitments enable it legally to do so.”
“Nutritional Programs: It was through just such a program (the Act of November 23, 1921, 42 Stat. 224, c. 135, commonly called the “Maternity Act”), and the U.S. Supreme Court’s refusal to consider a challenge to its constitutionality (Massachusetts v Mellon, 262 US 447 (1923)), that the federal government was first enabled to breach, through grant-in-aid programs, the delineation of the separation of authority between the state and federal governments established by the federal constitution. If the state of New Hampshire considers the providing of nutritional programs for needful citizens of this state and the preservation of its sovereignty both to be worthwhile, it must provide and pay for such programs itself and cease accepting federal funding and the accompanying federal rules.”
“WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE: This federal program began – as so many do – as a “temporary” response to an emergency, in this case that created by the exponential increases in prices for crude oil and refined petroleum products following the OPEC embargo in 1973 in connection with that year’s Arab-Israeli War. It was intended to enable a smooth transition to the new reality of the cost of heating oil, but almost 40 years later it is still with us. Government subsidy encourages poor decision-making and dependency. The people of New Hampshire must be held competent to understand that every November, without fail, it gets cold at this latitude and that they must arrange their affairs so as to provide for this fact of life as a matter of personal responsibility. And again, if the state of New Hampshire considers assistance in the purchase of home heating oil for needful citizens and the preservation of its sovereignty both to be worthwhile, it must provide and pay for such assistance itself and cease accepting federal funding and the accompanying federal rules.”
“Grants for: Historic Preservation; Sexual Assault Services; Violence Against Women Prevention; Rural domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Stalking and Residential Substance Abuse Prevention; Prisoner Reentry Initiative; Safe Havens for Children; Delinquency Prevention; Crime Victim Assistance and Compensation; Community Policing; Enforcing Underage Drinking Laws; Senior Community Service Employment; Dislocated Workers Assistance; Promotion of the Arts: These and many other such federally funded activities, though each in itself undoubtedly a good thing, are subject to the same objections and contribute to the undermining of the federal system in the same manner as the educational, nutritional and/or weatherization assistance programs discussed above, and like them should as soon as possible either be discontinued or continued supported entirely with in-state sources of funding and control”
Some of the reasons given for this change are; “too many regulations – it’s not the fed’s job – people need to toughen up!” Please understand that no savings to the federal government will occur, as the funds will be re-allocated to other states. Also NH taxpayers won’t get a break on their income taxes; we’ll still pay our federal share. Imagine what the education impact will do to our local taxes. Of course we could just teach the 3 R’s – and prepare our youth for the 18th century! What’s next, a new motto Live Free - Freeze & Die!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
DEGREES OF SEPARATION
Two separate events occurred since writing the last entry. The first was hearing the historian David McCullough speak at Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site regarding his book The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris, “the story of adventurous American artists, writers, doctors, politicians, architects, and others of high aspiration who set off for Paris in the years between 1830 and 1900.” Apparently, much has been written about the Americans who went to Paris at the beginning of our country, as well as those who went to Paris in the first half of the Twentieth Century, but there hasn’t been much about the middle group who also contributed to the American way of life. Several among this group to make the journey had played prominent roles in the triumphant return to the United States of General LaFayette in 1824/25 and how they journeyed to France because it was the center to learn the latest in art, science, literature, education, and medicine. Interestingly, Mr McCullough informed us that French policy was that no tuition costs would be charged to these foreigners, recognizing the value these aliens might provide to France’s quality of life. General Lafayette embraced these young Americans in the manner of an elderly uncle regarding the care and welfare of visiting relatives from afar, and regularly met with them and helped to open Parisian doors. As a hero of the American Revolution, Lafayette’s 1824/25 journey was part of our nation’s fiftieth anniversary and included a visit to Claremont while enroute from meeting with the NH Legislature to Windsor Vermont. So, as we passed the granite marker on 12A memorializes this American patriot’s visit, it seemed most appropriate to be travelling the same road used by Lafayette.
Among the Americans highlighted by Mr. McCullough was Augustus Saint-Gaudens whose home is now a National Historic Site. Saint-Gaudens, the son of a French immigrant shoemaker, became one of this country’s greatest sculptors and a member of the Cornish Art Colony. Exploring the spacious grounds of the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site is a wonderful experience – as it is one of the jewels of the Connecticut River Valley. Actually, it is an excellent example of how your taxes are put to good use! I also learned that David McCullough has connections to Claremont and the region, one of his oldest friends was former state representative David Allison, and that Judge Albert Leahy was his classmate at Yale (’55). Perhaps there is something to the theory that there exist only six degrees of separation between anyone in the world.
The second event was a meeting of the Legislature in Concord, which included speeches by five presidential candidates. Having presidential candidates address the NH legislature is not unusual, but having five at once was new. Interestingly, this provided the opportunity to focus on style, and content. After the opening ceremonies, the Speaker individually introduced each GOP presidential candidate to speak for ten minutes. First was Gary Johnson, the former governor of New Mexico, who completed a 500 mile bike ride across NH, and feels we are on the verge of a monetary collapse. He advocates for a fair tax, and would not have created the Department of Homeland Security. He ended by stressing that now is the time for mutual sacrifice by all Americans. Next was former US Senator Rick Santorum from Pennsylvania who is taller and slimmer than on television. He stated this is the most important election in the nation’s history and that NH’s position in the primary process is in jeopardy due Florida and Nevada, and how NH provides an opportunity for voters to ‘kick the tires’. His focus was we need a president who believes in us not the government.
The third candidate was former US House Speaker Newt Gingrich – who in the 1990’s came to Claremont with former President Clinton at the Bourdon Center. He stated we are in a period of enormous change and is working on a 21st Century Contract with America. Especially intriguing was his suggestion we adopt the Lincoln/Douglas debate as a model where each candidate would ask questions of their opponent. The fourth candidate was Georgia businessman Mr. Herman Cain who has an economic (999) plan, and was ecstatically received by house colleagues. Touting changes to social security, Cain stated we can choose the road to socialism and bigger government, or the road to more freedom, liberty and fewer taxes. I did find it odd that this overwhelmingly libertarian leaning (anti-tax) House would wildly applaud Cain who espouses a national 9% sales tax! The last candidate was Minnesota Congresswoman Michelle Bachman who said we have the right to be free of taxation without representation, and she’d repeal health care, cut taxes, go after illegal immigrants and concluded by saying “we want our country back” and then repeated God Bless three times.
While driving home the comments of Thomas Friedman kept resurfacing regarding this disconnect between the presidential election and the problems facing the nation as being “two separate universes – with no overlap between the election regarding the economy and world situation and the race for president”!
Among the Americans highlighted by Mr. McCullough was Augustus Saint-Gaudens whose home is now a National Historic Site. Saint-Gaudens, the son of a French immigrant shoemaker, became one of this country’s greatest sculptors and a member of the Cornish Art Colony. Exploring the spacious grounds of the Saint-Gaudens National Historic Site is a wonderful experience – as it is one of the jewels of the Connecticut River Valley. Actually, it is an excellent example of how your taxes are put to good use! I also learned that David McCullough has connections to Claremont and the region, one of his oldest friends was former state representative David Allison, and that Judge Albert Leahy was his classmate at Yale (’55). Perhaps there is something to the theory that there exist only six degrees of separation between anyone in the world.
The second event was a meeting of the Legislature in Concord, which included speeches by five presidential candidates. Having presidential candidates address the NH legislature is not unusual, but having five at once was new. Interestingly, this provided the opportunity to focus on style, and content. After the opening ceremonies, the Speaker individually introduced each GOP presidential candidate to speak for ten minutes. First was Gary Johnson, the former governor of New Mexico, who completed a 500 mile bike ride across NH, and feels we are on the verge of a monetary collapse. He advocates for a fair tax, and would not have created the Department of Homeland Security. He ended by stressing that now is the time for mutual sacrifice by all Americans. Next was former US Senator Rick Santorum from Pennsylvania who is taller and slimmer than on television. He stated this is the most important election in the nation’s history and that NH’s position in the primary process is in jeopardy due Florida and Nevada, and how NH provides an opportunity for voters to ‘kick the tires’. His focus was we need a president who believes in us not the government.
The third candidate was former US House Speaker Newt Gingrich – who in the 1990’s came to Claremont with former President Clinton at the Bourdon Center. He stated we are in a period of enormous change and is working on a 21st Century Contract with America. Especially intriguing was his suggestion we adopt the Lincoln/Douglas debate as a model where each candidate would ask questions of their opponent. The fourth candidate was Georgia businessman Mr. Herman Cain who has an economic (999) plan, and was ecstatically received by house colleagues. Touting changes to social security, Cain stated we can choose the road to socialism and bigger government, or the road to more freedom, liberty and fewer taxes. I did find it odd that this overwhelmingly libertarian leaning (anti-tax) House would wildly applaud Cain who espouses a national 9% sales tax! The last candidate was Minnesota Congresswoman Michelle Bachman who said we have the right to be free of taxation without representation, and she’d repeal health care, cut taxes, go after illegal immigrants and concluded by saying “we want our country back” and then repeated God Bless three times.
While driving home the comments of Thomas Friedman kept resurfacing regarding this disconnect between the presidential election and the problems facing the nation as being “two separate universes – with no overlap between the election regarding the economy and world situation and the race for president”!
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Talking to a Tea Partier: A Primer
I thought the topic for this would be “How to talk to a Tea Partier?” Who knows, maybe I’d be able to write something humorous and light hearted, causing readers to smile and say things like - how entertaining and witty! Then while attending the Claremont Fall Festival, I bumped into a local guy who shall remain nameless. While I don’t know for sure if he is a card carrying tea party member – he always sounds very über libertarian and mistrustful of government and personal motives! In the course of our brief chat, he said that if this was back in the days of the American Revolution – I’d be a Tory and he (and his ilk) would be Patriots! WOW! Now I would not normally recommend this as a preferred icebreaker and way to start a conversation – but it did stimulate an interesting exchange. When asked why such a clear delineation, his response was I’m for government therefore anyone who supports government would be a Tory! I came back with – for me government is all of us – you know “of the people, by the people, for the people”, versus a selfish “me” attitude. Needless to say, the conversation went downhill from there with each of us saying a lot, but neither listening very much.
This exchange got me to thinking – does any common ground exist and is it possible, for people who are so opposite, to have substantive conversations? Or are we destined to follow two separate paths – the Tea Party version that only watches Fox News, has rallies in Broad Street Park and listens to Limbaugh, and my side that interchanges MS-NBC, Wall Street Protests and Lawrence O’Donnell? Being a pro-active, inquisitive, modern 21st Century globalista – I immediately turned to the internet and googled the question: How does one talk to a Free State tea bag anarchist libertarian extremist? Needless to say, the computer suggested that I should re-frame the query (too inflammatory)! Interestingly, I did learn that tea partiers do not like being called tea baggers, which is odd since I have seen many pictures of them at political rallies with bunches of tea bags dangling from their hats! In reality my search effectively did away with any presupposition that such a topic could be humorous, light or entertaining! I quickly learned that these people mean serious business and their basic core beliefs are that you Don’t trust government, Taxes are bad and Everyone’s on their own!
Regarding their mantra to not trust any government, there is this real disconnect and failure to realize that they/we are the government. Furthermore, government regulations exist to protect us (the citizens) by establishing basic fundamental operating standards – that means licensing things like barbers and banks. Also whenever we dismantle or de-regulate we end up with things like the recent banking crisis and the BP Oil spill in the Gulf. Next – Taxes are bad – which leads me to ask how we will pay for our roads, schools, police and fire departments. Bottom line is tea partiers think that the country will get along just fine if we abolish taxes; unfortunately, I believe government has a responsibility to provide good roads, good schools and help the least among us which brings me to their final belief that puts individual freedoms ahead of collective responsibility. Quite frankly, can people really be this self serving? It seems they really prefer to dismiss the need for things like health care reform and are content to just label it as socialized medicine or Obama-care. Also forget trying to have a discussion about tax parity which will quickly dissolve into charges of class warfare! Somehow our running two wars on a credit card were fiscally acceptable! An excellent example of this communication disconnect is just look at the presidential campaign which Thomas Friedman describes as “two separate universes – with no overlap between the election regarding the economy and world situation and the race for president.” I can attest that at the state level, there is little discussion of problems, merely political posturing and the situation appears worse in Washington.
Among the more alarming findings from my query was again by Thomas Friedman who stated that the “Tea Party is so lacking in any aspiration for American greatness, so dominated by the narrowest visions for our country and so ignorant of the fact that it was not tax cuts that made America great but our unique public-private partnerships across the generations. If sane Republicans do not stand up to this Hezbollah faction in their midst, the Tea Party will take the GOP on a suicide mission.” As a student of history who appreciates the American system this is upsetting, I suppose I could take a partisan stand, however if I really believe in a government “of the people, by the people, for the people” we need two sides talking and working together. Otherwise – last one out of town shut off the lights!” So much for comic relief and an attempt at writing a column that is light, humorous and witty!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Political Musical Chairs!
The big news last week was Governor John Lynch’s announcement that he will not run for a historic 5th term. News like this is to a political junkie what a triple fudge chocolate cake (with sprinkles) is to a chocolahoic. The decision opens the door to countless speculative stories and political punditry about what could happen; what will happen; and what should happen – Oh Happy Days!
The governor’s announcement completely overshadowed the House’s overriding his veto on SB88 – [guns and the use of physical force in the defense of a person] – so, from a purely political perspective, the governor again showed his political skills on how to capture the news cycle. Unfortunately, I will have to save my story on how we are going back to the Wild West and shoot-ups at local watering holes for another day.
The governor’s decision demonstrates his strength at being able to communicate with the people of New Hampshire. He is certainly someone who knows his own mind and has consistently been forthright and candid with voters. For example - while I have not always appreciated his stand on broad base taxes – I always knew where he stood on the issue. The Governor could have dragged this decision out for months, allowing speculation to build and used it as a tool to enhance his standing, and garner a great deal of personal publicity. However, choosing to be upfront and let us all know his plans – sends a broadside to both potential candidates and to voters that it is time to start paying attention to the future of New Hampshire. Also, I believe this strengthens his ability to lead for the next 16 months while providing ample time for individuals interested in the job to organize – raise funds – meet people – and refine their message.
While there is always the risk of being seen as a lame duck and thus ineffective; that would normally only apply in dealing with the legislature. However, in the House he presently faces a 3:1 ratio in favor of republicans who have demonstrated a commitment to a radical libertarian agenda; therefore the opportunity for genuine compromise and collaboration is exceedingly slim. Now – when Lynch disagrees – the opposition can’t say he is posturing or “playing to the crowd.” He will now have the ‘bully pulpit’ and be perceived correctly as acting in the best interest of New Hampshire. While I am certain members of the opposition never personally questioned his motives – public posturing and accusations was sometimes a different matter. Now, Governor Lynch can take the high road without being accused of acting out of political convenience. Furthermore, he can hold the radical libertarians accountable and demonstrate how their extremist principles will negatively impact New Hampshire! Oh Happy Days!
Lastly, the governor’s decision is in the best tradition of American Democracy. Few doubted his ability to be re-elected; however the decision to step down allows the opportunity for a new set of eyes to focus on solutions versus the risk of becoming stale. Of course, no time was wasted before political pundits and a spectrum of self appointed experts started the process of speculating who’s waiting in the wings to occupy the statehouse corner office.
Based on the names being floated, the 2012 election should provide two very distinct and clear ideologies and determine if we will steer right or left. Among the republicans, names such as Ovide LaMontagne, Jeb Bradley and John Steven are surfacing while Maggie Hassan and Jacalyn Cilley are being discussed by the democrats. Both LaMontagne and Stephen are lawyers and lifelong residents of Manchester. John Stephen ran for governor and was soundly defeated by John Lynch in the last election, and many will recall how Ovide LaMontagne lost a close primary race to Kelly Ayotte for the US Senate. Jeb Bradley is a state senator from Wolfeboro and a former US Congressman. All three republicans are viewed as being on the far right of the political spectrum, and aligned to the Tea Party wing of the party.
On the democrat side – Jacalyn Cilley and Maggie Hassan are both former New Hampshire State Senators. Jacalyn Cilley is a marketing consultant from Barrington, while Maggie Hassan is a lawyer from Exeter. Both are viewed as center left on the political spectrum with ties to the traditional democrat establishment and organizations.
Nonetheless rumblings have already started, in both parties, about finding someone who best reflects the centrist views of Governor Lynch and the New Hampshire voter. Historically, candidates are often placed in the position of having to go to either the right or left to win their party’s nomination. However, conventional thinking is – to win the general election, a candidate needs to be viewed as centrist and mainstream. Interestingly, the names of several western NH politicians are being mentioned. Senators Houde (Plainfield) and Odell (Lempster) – both from Sullivan County are being suggested as potential candidates with broad appeal, along with Senator Molly Kelly from Keene. So if you remember the game of musical chairs – we are about to experience something similar – political musical chairs – Oh Happy Days!
Monday, August 29, 2011
IRENE – LET’S HOPE YOU’RE ONLY IN OUR DREAMS!
It’s Friday – August 26, 2011 – Claremont is experiencing another perfect summer day. It’s hard to believe the weather reports about approaching Hurricane Irene and how we in the Connecticut River Valley are at risk. All around town, people are securing equipment that might fly away, and storing lawn furniture. The preparation could easily be overkill but we have all heard stories and seen what damage these storms can cause – so best to be prepared.
Actually, I can’t remember the last major hurricane to hit Claremont – although I did grow up hearing stories about the “Big One” – the Hurricane of ’38 and how it cut a swath through New England. My parents were newly married and living on Spofford Street and how the storm was so severe, the wind actually blew the entire roof off the house, forcing them to escape down the street to stay with relatives. My dad owned a small gas station across from where the Stone Arch Bakery is today and I recall his telling me how difficult it was to just get from Main Street to where they were living. Of course this was all before national weather gathering information and regional/state preparedness. Actually, it is because of such natural (as well as manmade) disasters that has generated an integrated emergency response system that includes NOAA and FEMA on the federal level; the NH Division of Emergency Preparedness and our local safety services such as Fire, Police, and DOT. Over the years, since the big one of ’38, each of these emergency systems have been called upon to work collaboratively and respond to such things as hurricanes, blizzards, ice storms etc… And of course let us not forget how this year is the 10th Anniversary of September 11, 2001 and the attacks by terrorists where emergency services were put to the ultimate test.
Now compare this long term commitment of preparedness and public safety with the behavior and policy demonstrated this past year by the NH House of Representatives that has focused on the dismantling of government services through budget cuts and eliminating safety regulations that will down shift costs to local governments. This has resulted in behavior where political leaders have publically called firefighters thugs because they dare voice concern about cuts to their retirement benefits and infringements on their right to collective bargaining.
The assumption that NH Government is too fat and wasteful is ludicrous. I doubt there is any state in the nation more frugal, bordering on cheap, than we in the granite state. For example – about twenty years ago as a state employee, I was one of 10,000 plus workers – interestingly, this past year prior to the budget cuts there were 11,875 authorized positions but only 10,683 filled positions – hardly out of control unmanaged growth! Note: that now – after the recent budget – there are 9,814 workers.
It is interesting that these anti-public employee voices have the audacity to claim that they are doing this so people can be freer and be “liberated” from the state! Yes – those firemen who run into burning buildings; teachers who educate our youth, highway workers who keep roads and bridges safe and police who risk their lives are somehow the problem!
I am convinced that there are outside forces attempting to dismantle and turn New Hampshire into some type of libertarian anarchistic entity where everyone will be on their own. Their mantra is cut taxes; however they forget to make the link that taxes pay for public services. A little known fact is that thanks to the present legislature – we now have a 28 year paving cycle for all our state highways. Yes that means state highways will be re-paved every twenty-eight years! Perhaps you are aware that these same champions of liberty lowered this past session the tax on cigarettes. Their argument is this will increase the sale of cigarettes hence bring in added revenue. Unfortunately, the concept of fostering long term health care costs to both the individual and community did not matter. Interestingly, according to sources, in Concord, revenues for the budget just passed are about 4 million dollars short for the month of July. This 4 million dollar shortfall is about the same amount that was projected had the cigarette tax not been cut. It’s an interesting game of cutting revenue then saying – we wish we could do more but look there’s no money available!
This past spring – a member of Leadership actually stated on the House Floor that fire sprinklers are tyranny! The argument pro and con is complex however; to equate fire sprinklers to tyranny and imply the state is imposing itself on the freedoms of people is a bit much!
Now – I do not know what will happen with Hurricane Irene – and I do hope we all are spared its devastation, but knowing that an integrated national, state, and local public safety response is in place does make it more re-assuring, especially the knowledge that we are not alone.
Actually, I can’t remember the last major hurricane to hit Claremont – although I did grow up hearing stories about the “Big One” – the Hurricane of ’38 and how it cut a swath through New England. My parents were newly married and living on Spofford Street and how the storm was so severe, the wind actually blew the entire roof off the house, forcing them to escape down the street to stay with relatives. My dad owned a small gas station across from where the Stone Arch Bakery is today and I recall his telling me how difficult it was to just get from Main Street to where they were living. Of course this was all before national weather gathering information and regional/state preparedness. Actually, it is because of such natural (as well as manmade) disasters that has generated an integrated emergency response system that includes NOAA and FEMA on the federal level; the NH Division of Emergency Preparedness and our local safety services such as Fire, Police, and DOT. Over the years, since the big one of ’38, each of these emergency systems have been called upon to work collaboratively and respond to such things as hurricanes, blizzards, ice storms etc… And of course let us not forget how this year is the 10th Anniversary of September 11, 2001 and the attacks by terrorists where emergency services were put to the ultimate test.
Now compare this long term commitment of preparedness and public safety with the behavior and policy demonstrated this past year by the NH House of Representatives that has focused on the dismantling of government services through budget cuts and eliminating safety regulations that will down shift costs to local governments. This has resulted in behavior where political leaders have publically called firefighters thugs because they dare voice concern about cuts to their retirement benefits and infringements on their right to collective bargaining.
The assumption that NH Government is too fat and wasteful is ludicrous. I doubt there is any state in the nation more frugal, bordering on cheap, than we in the granite state. For example – about twenty years ago as a state employee, I was one of 10,000 plus workers – interestingly, this past year prior to the budget cuts there were 11,875 authorized positions but only 10,683 filled positions – hardly out of control unmanaged growth! Note: that now – after the recent budget – there are 9,814 workers.
It is interesting that these anti-public employee voices have the audacity to claim that they are doing this so people can be freer and be “liberated” from the state! Yes – those firemen who run into burning buildings; teachers who educate our youth, highway workers who keep roads and bridges safe and police who risk their lives are somehow the problem!
I am convinced that there are outside forces attempting to dismantle and turn New Hampshire into some type of libertarian anarchistic entity where everyone will be on their own. Their mantra is cut taxes; however they forget to make the link that taxes pay for public services. A little known fact is that thanks to the present legislature – we now have a 28 year paving cycle for all our state highways. Yes that means state highways will be re-paved every twenty-eight years! Perhaps you are aware that these same champions of liberty lowered this past session the tax on cigarettes. Their argument is this will increase the sale of cigarettes hence bring in added revenue. Unfortunately, the concept of fostering long term health care costs to both the individual and community did not matter. Interestingly, according to sources, in Concord, revenues for the budget just passed are about 4 million dollars short for the month of July. This 4 million dollar shortfall is about the same amount that was projected had the cigarette tax not been cut. It’s an interesting game of cutting revenue then saying – we wish we could do more but look there’s no money available!
This past spring – a member of Leadership actually stated on the House Floor that fire sprinklers are tyranny! The argument pro and con is complex however; to equate fire sprinklers to tyranny and imply the state is imposing itself on the freedoms of people is a bit much!
Now – I do not know what will happen with Hurricane Irene – and I do hope we all are spared its devastation, but knowing that an integrated national, state, and local public safety response is in place does make it more re-assuring, especially the knowledge that we are not alone.
IRENE – LET’S HOPE YOU’RE ONLY IN OUR DREAMS!
It’s Friday – August 26, 2011 – Claremont is experiencing another perfect summer day. It’s hard to believe the weather reports about approaching Hurricane Irene and how we in the Connecticut River Valley are at risk. All around town, people are securing equipment that might fly away, and storing lawn furniture. The preparation could easily be overkill but we have all heard stories and seen what damage these storms can cause – so best to be prepared.
Actually, I can’t remember the last major hurricane to hit Claremont – although I did grow up hearing stories about the “Big One” – the Hurricane of ’38 and how it cut a swath through New England. My parents were newly married and living on Spofford Street and how the storm was so severe, the wind actually blew the entire roof off the house, forcing them to escape down the street to stay with relatives. My dad owned a small gas station across from where the Stone Arch Bakery is today and I recall his telling me how difficult it was to just get from Main Street to where they were living. Of course this was all before national weather gathering information and regional/state preparedness. Actually, it is because of such natural (as well as manmade) disasters that has generated an integrated emergency response system that includes NOAA and FEMA on the federal level; the NH Division of Emergency Preparedness and our local safety services such as Fire, Police, and DOT. Over the years, since the big one of ’38, each of these emergency systems have been called upon to work collaboratively and respond to such things as hurricanes, blizzards, ice storms etc… And of course let us not forget how this year is the 10th Anniversary of September 11, 2001 and the attacks by terrorists where emergency services were put to the ultimate test.
Now compare this long term commitment of preparedness and public safety with the behavior and policy demonstrated this past year by the NH House of Representatives that has focused on the dismantling of government services through budget cuts and eliminating safety regulations that will down shift costs to local governments. This has resulted in behavior where political leaders have publically called firefighters thugs because they dare voice concern about cuts to their retirement benefits and infringements on their right to collective bargaining.
The assumption that NH Government is too fat and wasteful is ludicrous. I doubt there is any state in the nation more frugal, bordering on cheap, than we in the granite state. For example – about twenty years ago as a state employee, I was one of 10,000 plus workers – interestingly, this past year prior to the budget cuts there were 11,875 authorized positions but only 10,683 filled positions – hardly out of control unmanaged growth! Note: that now – after the recent budget – there are 9,814 workers.
It is interesting that these anti-public employee voices have the audacity to claim that they are doing this so people can be freer and be “liberated” from the state! Yes – those firemen who run into burning buildings; teachers who educate our youth, highway workers who keep roads and bridges safe and police who risk their lives are somehow the problem!
I am convinced that there are outside forces attempting to dismantle and turn New Hampshire into some type of libertarian anarchistic entity where everyone will be on their own. Their mantra is cut taxes; however they forget to make the link that taxes pay for public services. A little known fact is that thanks to the present legislature – we now have a 28 year paving cycle for all our state highways. Yes that means state highways will be re-paved every twenty-eight years! Perhaps you are aware that these same champions of liberty lowered this past session the tax on cigarettes. Their argument is this will increase the sale of cigarettes hence bring in added revenue. Unfortunately, the concept of fostering long term health care costs to both the individual and community did not matter. Interestingly, according to sources, in Concord, revenues for the budget just passed are about 4 million dollars short for the month of July. This 4 million dollar shortfall is about the same amount that was projected had the cigarette tax not been cut. It’s an interesting game of cutting revenue then saying – we wish we could do more but look there’s no money available!
This past spring – a member of Leadership actually stated on the House Floor that fire sprinklers are tyranny! The argument pro and con is complex however; to equate fire sprinklers to tyranny and imply the state is imposing itself on the freedoms of people is a bit much!
Now – I do not know what will happen with Hurricane Irene – and I do hope we all are spared its devastation, but knowing that an integrated national, state, and local public safety response is in place does make it more re-assuring, especially the knowledge that we are not alone.
Actually, I can’t remember the last major hurricane to hit Claremont – although I did grow up hearing stories about the “Big One” – the Hurricane of ’38 and how it cut a swath through New England. My parents were newly married and living on Spofford Street and how the storm was so severe, the wind actually blew the entire roof off the house, forcing them to escape down the street to stay with relatives. My dad owned a small gas station across from where the Stone Arch Bakery is today and I recall his telling me how difficult it was to just get from Main Street to where they were living. Of course this was all before national weather gathering information and regional/state preparedness. Actually, it is because of such natural (as well as manmade) disasters that has generated an integrated emergency response system that includes NOAA and FEMA on the federal level; the NH Division of Emergency Preparedness and our local safety services such as Fire, Police, and DOT. Over the years, since the big one of ’38, each of these emergency systems have been called upon to work collaboratively and respond to such things as hurricanes, blizzards, ice storms etc… And of course let us not forget how this year is the 10th Anniversary of September 11, 2001 and the attacks by terrorists where emergency services were put to the ultimate test.
Now compare this long term commitment of preparedness and public safety with the behavior and policy demonstrated this past year by the NH House of Representatives that has focused on the dismantling of government services through budget cuts and eliminating safety regulations that will down shift costs to local governments. This has resulted in behavior where political leaders have publically called firefighters thugs because they dare voice concern about cuts to their retirement benefits and infringements on their right to collective bargaining.
The assumption that NH Government is too fat and wasteful is ludicrous. I doubt there is any state in the nation more frugal, bordering on cheap, than we in the granite state. For example – about twenty years ago as a state employee, I was one of 10,000 plus workers – interestingly, this past year prior to the budget cuts there were 11,875 authorized positions but only 10,683 filled positions – hardly out of control unmanaged growth! Note: that now – after the recent budget – there are 9,814 workers.
It is interesting that these anti-public employee voices have the audacity to claim that they are doing this so people can be freer and be “liberated” from the state! Yes – those firemen who run into burning buildings; teachers who educate our youth, highway workers who keep roads and bridges safe and police who risk their lives are somehow the problem!
I am convinced that there are outside forces attempting to dismantle and turn New Hampshire into some type of libertarian anarchistic entity where everyone will be on their own. Their mantra is cut taxes; however they forget to make the link that taxes pay for public services. A little known fact is that thanks to the present legislature – we now have a 28 year paving cycle for all our state highways. Yes that means state highways will be re-paved every twenty-eight years! Perhaps you are aware that these same champions of liberty lowered this past session the tax on cigarettes. Their argument is this will increase the sale of cigarettes hence bring in added revenue. Unfortunately, the concept of fostering long term health care costs to both the individual and community did not matter. Interestingly, according to sources, in Concord, revenues for the budget just passed are about 4 million dollars short for the month of July. This 4 million dollar shortfall is about the same amount that was projected had the cigarette tax not been cut. It’s an interesting game of cutting revenue then saying – we wish we could do more but look there’s no money available!
This past spring – a member of Leadership actually stated on the House Floor that fire sprinklers are tyranny! The argument pro and con is complex however; to equate fire sprinklers to tyranny and imply the state is imposing itself on the freedoms of people is a bit much!
Now – I do not know what will happen with Hurricane Irene – and I do hope we all are spared its devastation, but knowing that an integrated national, state, and local public safety response is in place does make it more re-assuring, especially the knowledge that we are not alone.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Good Neighbors = Fewer Fences
In this age of Tea Partiers and Free Staters working to dismantle government both in Washington and Concord, it was especially refreshing to spend time last week focusing on ideas dealing with solving problems and how the US and Canadian economies can be more seamless and efficient. The aim is that with technology, planning and standard policies we will collectively become more effective in the transportation of goods, and provide services that will translate into better jobs and an improved standard of living. So, with apologies to Robert Frost, the title good neighbors equal fewer fences.
Last week I had the privilege to be in Halifax Nova Scotia and represent the New Hampshire House and the NH-Canada Trade Council at the 52nd Annual Council of State Governments Conference. Their focus, on how states and provinces can better work together as well as engage their federal counterparts in the process, is a novel approach of everyone pulling in the same direction!
These yearly conferences provide an excellent opportunity for policy makers from different political parties to come together and discuss the challenging issues currently facing state and provincial governments. Two unique aspects of the Council of State Governments are that it includes the legislative and executive branches of government, as well as the participation of Canadian Provinces as full members. The rationale being that in this day of international supply chains and inter-connected economies a positive and collaborative relationship between states and the Canadian provinces is sound policy.
I had long known of our shared history and culture and that 30% of NH residents are of French Canadian ancestry. However, it was an eye opener to learn how our two economies are so intertwined – for example a car built in Detroit, crosses the border in some shape or fashion eight times before completion! The Canadian Government provided a sampling of statistics that demonstrated this economic marriage. For example, I learned that more than 8 million U.S. jobs depend on USA/CAN trade; Canada is the top export destination for 35 states, and the total USA/CAN merchandise trade is $481 billion dollars. Also, Canada is the United States largest and most secure supplier of energy (oil, natural gas, electricity and nuclear fuel).
Specifically as it applies to the Granite State – last year there were 471,700 Canadians who visited NH and 179,000 granite staters visited Canada – with 59 million dollars spent in the process! NH exports 493 million dollars in goods to Canada yearly, while we import $5.8 billion in goods from Canada. Furthermore, there are forty six Canadian owned companies in New Hampshire that employs 5,116 people. Estimates are that 37,700 jobs in NH depend on Canada-US trade. Locally, a good example of this economic connection is Structal Steel – a key Claremont employer providing quality jobs, but owned by the Canam Group from Boucherville Québec. Needless to say this all helps explain why our neighbors to the north are concerned about our economy and fear we may let politics get in the way of mature decision making.
The idea of New England working collaboratively with Maritime Canada is nothing new and goes back to our colonial past. However, the participation on the federal level is especially interesting. Last February Prime Minister Harper and President Obama announced a new perimeter security agreement called “Beyond the Border: A Shared Vision for Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness” which established a partnership to accelerate the legitimate flows of people and goods between the two countries. They identified four areas of cooperation: addressing threats early; trade facilitation, economic growth and jobs; integrated cross border law enforcement; and critical infrastructure and cyber security.
Specifically, we learned that this will translate into increased investments in modern infrastructure and technology at our busiest land ports of entry. Also, as part of this initiative, Nova Scotia is building a deep water container port at Cape Breton to accommodate large container ships unable to access the Panama Canal. This means goods will be transported quicker to New England via a short sea shipping service from Nova Scotia to Boston. We also learned that rail service is vital to the plan thus the need for high speed rail. The Amtrak Vermonter, which stops in Claremont, is projected to resume service to Montreal with fewer delays. Apparently, New York, Vermont, and Quebec are working closely with the feds to make this happen by 2013.
Both Vermont’s Governor and Nova Scotia’s Premier stressed that not only do we need sound budgets, but we should use growth as a way to get out of our economic doldrums. They both contend that the green energy being produced by Canadian hydro, wind, and tidal projects will provide New England and industrial Canada with cheap reliable energy. They stressed that not only will this eliminate our dependency on fossil fuel, but have an economic impact greater than the Industrial Revolution of the 19th century.
So again with apologies to Robert Frost, I somewhat disagree that good fences make good neighbors – in regards to the future of the region. Maybe the motto should be good neighbors equal fewer fences.
Last week I had the privilege to be in Halifax Nova Scotia and represent the New Hampshire House and the NH-Canada Trade Council at the 52nd Annual Council of State Governments Conference. Their focus, on how states and provinces can better work together as well as engage their federal counterparts in the process, is a novel approach of everyone pulling in the same direction!
These yearly conferences provide an excellent opportunity for policy makers from different political parties to come together and discuss the challenging issues currently facing state and provincial governments. Two unique aspects of the Council of State Governments are that it includes the legislative and executive branches of government, as well as the participation of Canadian Provinces as full members. The rationale being that in this day of international supply chains and inter-connected economies a positive and collaborative relationship between states and the Canadian provinces is sound policy.
I had long known of our shared history and culture and that 30% of NH residents are of French Canadian ancestry. However, it was an eye opener to learn how our two economies are so intertwined – for example a car built in Detroit, crosses the border in some shape or fashion eight times before completion! The Canadian Government provided a sampling of statistics that demonstrated this economic marriage. For example, I learned that more than 8 million U.S. jobs depend on USA/CAN trade; Canada is the top export destination for 35 states, and the total USA/CAN merchandise trade is $481 billion dollars. Also, Canada is the United States largest and most secure supplier of energy (oil, natural gas, electricity and nuclear fuel).
Specifically as it applies to the Granite State – last year there were 471,700 Canadians who visited NH and 179,000 granite staters visited Canada – with 59 million dollars spent in the process! NH exports 493 million dollars in goods to Canada yearly, while we import $5.8 billion in goods from Canada. Furthermore, there are forty six Canadian owned companies in New Hampshire that employs 5,116 people. Estimates are that 37,700 jobs in NH depend on Canada-US trade. Locally, a good example of this economic connection is Structal Steel – a key Claremont employer providing quality jobs, but owned by the Canam Group from Boucherville Québec. Needless to say this all helps explain why our neighbors to the north are concerned about our economy and fear we may let politics get in the way of mature decision making.
The idea of New England working collaboratively with Maritime Canada is nothing new and goes back to our colonial past. However, the participation on the federal level is especially interesting. Last February Prime Minister Harper and President Obama announced a new perimeter security agreement called “Beyond the Border: A Shared Vision for Perimeter Security and Economic Competitiveness” which established a partnership to accelerate the legitimate flows of people and goods between the two countries. They identified four areas of cooperation: addressing threats early; trade facilitation, economic growth and jobs; integrated cross border law enforcement; and critical infrastructure and cyber security.
Specifically, we learned that this will translate into increased investments in modern infrastructure and technology at our busiest land ports of entry. Also, as part of this initiative, Nova Scotia is building a deep water container port at Cape Breton to accommodate large container ships unable to access the Panama Canal. This means goods will be transported quicker to New England via a short sea shipping service from Nova Scotia to Boston. We also learned that rail service is vital to the plan thus the need for high speed rail. The Amtrak Vermonter, which stops in Claremont, is projected to resume service to Montreal with fewer delays. Apparently, New York, Vermont, and Quebec are working closely with the feds to make this happen by 2013.
Both Vermont’s Governor and Nova Scotia’s Premier stressed that not only do we need sound budgets, but we should use growth as a way to get out of our economic doldrums. They both contend that the green energy being produced by Canadian hydro, wind, and tidal projects will provide New England and industrial Canada with cheap reliable energy. They stressed that not only will this eliminate our dependency on fossil fuel, but have an economic impact greater than the Industrial Revolution of the 19th century.
So again with apologies to Robert Frost, I somewhat disagree that good fences make good neighbors – in regards to the future of the region. Maybe the motto should be good neighbors equal fewer fences.
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