Vermont House Speaker Shap Smith today asked Vermonters, policy makers and stakeholders to submit education finance and education spending proposals for consideration in the coming legislative session as lawmakers work to create an education system that is sustainable and affordable for taxpayers.
“Vermonters value high quality public education,” said Speaker Smith, “but the current delivery and funding systems have resulted in annual property tax increases that many Vermonters cannot afford. We need to work together to solve this problem. That’s why I am inviting taxpayers, stakeholders and policy makers to add their voices to the conversation the House will undertake when we reconvene in January.”
The Speaker of the House has made education reform and property tax relief a top priority. In October, Smith announced he would instruct his leadership team to bring property tax relief to a vote in 2015. The Speaker has since held meetings with state and local stakeholders to demonstrate his commitment to reform efforts.
The Speaker’s Office has asked that all respondents reply byDecember 31, 2014. Proposals may be submitted electronically using the email address[email protected]. Mailed materials may be sent to: Speaker’s Office, 115 State Street, Montpelier, VT 05633.
“Education is a collaborative effort. By asking folks to share their ideas, we seek a dialogue with our neighbors and communities. It’s time to roll up our sleeves and work together to improve Vermont’s education system,” Speaker Smith concluded.