Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns’ Statement on Governor Raimondo’s FY2020 Budget Proposal

Statement by Brian Daniels, Executive Director, Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns Re: Governor Gina M. Raimondo Fiscal Year 2020 budget proposal:

The League of Cities and Towns appreciates Governor Raimondo’s commitment to all 39 municipalities and the work that our local officials are doing, particularly during a challenging budget year.

We are glad to see increased funding to our schools, that, when combined with the new school construction program, will provide students with greater opportunities and the support they need. We are disappointed to see a decrease in Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) funds, which are a critical funding source in numerous communities; however, we do appreciate that new tools were proposed to generate additional local revenues. As the state continues to phase out the car tax, we strongly urge an early resolution to any possible changes so local assessors can provide one-time tax relief to residents. While we recognize that the legalization of marijuana could have fiscal benefits to the state and municipalities, our city and town officials will face numerous implementation challenges and impacts in their communities. For that reason, further discussion will be necessary with public safety experts, local officials as well as our constituents on the details of this proposal.

Our members have much to digest and need to analyze the impacts on their individual communities. Over the coming days, weeks and months, we will remain engaged with the Governor’s Administration and the General Assembly to provide input on policies that directly affect our communities and local taxpayers.

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