This series highlights taxpayer groups around the country that are making a difference through their innovative techniques and persistent efforts. Today’s post outlines two groups in the state of New Hampshire that work together to make an impact: Granite State Taxpayers and Bedford Taxpayers Association.

Granite State Taxpayers (GST) is a statewide group handling legislative issues, while Bedford Taxpayers Association (BTA) is a local group dealing primarily with the town council and school board. Both groups have similar goals working for economic growth, less regulation and stable/lower taxes while opposing wasteful spending, increases in or new taxes and fees and Federal intervention. Their affiliation combined with their specialization in certain areas enables them to focus their energies and make an impact on multiple levels. The groups are both coming up on their 20th anniversaries having been in existence for 18 and 19 years respectively.

One of Granite State Taxpayers’ important achievements was getting legislation passed that enabled local voters to vote by official ballot rather than in-person at meetings. This made a huge difference in the number of people able to participate in political decisions. Victory did not come easily or swiftly as GST pushed this issue for over three years. Efforts came in the form of personal contacts, attending legislative committee hearings, various forms of printed material and rallies. GST demonstrates the importance of determination, but also of being physically present at meetings. There is no substitute for face to face meetings with legislators in terms of making an impact. GST also provides resources for local taxpayer groups by connecting them with others, providing sample bylaws and walking them through the state/local paperwork to get established. When legislation comes up that affects certain local areas, GST encourages members of local groups to attend hearings and participate on the state level. These actions have sparked the interest of many individuals, so much so that some go on to run for office!

Bedford Taxpayers Association has met with success in getting their agenda passed in local elections. Before each election, BTA sends out a newsletter that indicates which candidates and proposals the Association favors. Another clever addition that is included is a sample ballot appropriately filled in that voters can take with them to the polls. Again, attending town council and school board meetings is an important aspect of their efforts. They provide taxpayer insight and because of their influence in elections, council members are “inclined to ‘listen’” to their opinions.

GST and BTA are wonderful examples of groups working together to monitor and participate in the issues that affect taxpayers. They remind us that being a taxpayer is not a spectator sport, but requires presence at meetings with decision makers, personal involvement and action.

If you know of a state or local taxpayer group that is making an impact and would like to be featured in this blog series, please email bcardiff@ntu.org.