Issues

Yearly Tax Reassessment MUST END!

Tax reassessments should be done when obligated by law or when the average market pricing stabilizes, NOT during an inflated market caused by COVID-19. This money grab was orchestrated by one former mayor and applauded by another, who now seeks reelection without regard for the Vernon taxpayers!

Create a commission to evaluate and streamline the tax reassessment process allowable by law.
Encourage community engagement through town hall meetings & social media to gather input on tax assessment methods.

Municipal Spending

I will work closely with the CFO, BA, Department heads, and town attorney on all contracts , and if needed, will utilize experienced contract negotiators to review and update current agreements with vendors and suppliers while always keeping the Vernon taxpayers first!
Collaborate with labor unions to renegotiate collective bargaining agreements that ensure fairness for all parties.
Utilize the full potential of our current and future municipal employees and invest where needed to achieve optimal results.
Emphasize transparency and collaboration in future contract negotiations.

Implement a cost-cutting program to save money while maintaining quality public services.
Foster collaboration with neighboring municipalities to reduce overall spending and extend our shared services that will only raise Vernon's revenue.

Make Vernon Business-Friendly

Let's all be honest! Vernon is not business-friendly! As a former business owner, I know the challenges, delays, and loss of revenue that occur during this painful process. I have met many of our local business owner friends who share the same experiences. This MUST be fixed!!
If elected mayor, I will create a task/responsibility for an existing knowledgeable staff member who will act as a liaison/concierge service provider to new business owners and developers. This staff member will work with the new investors to ensure their project starts successfully with the proper guidance and will escalate as needed for the project's duration because TIME IS MONEY!
Offer incentives to new businesses to locate in Vernon, including reduced fees and streamlined permit processes.
Simplify the zoning and permitting processes and resolve bottleneck issues, making it easier for businesses to open and operate.

Ratables

Invest in revitalizing downtown Vernon to make it more attractive for business investments.
Promote the expansion of the current tax base by incentivizing businesses to increase the size of their properties and staff.
Encourage the development of more housing in zoned areas and office space to diversify the tax base and increase rateables.

Pet Projects

Focus on core infrastructure projects like road repair and water/sewer upgrades.
Institute a review process for new proposals that ensures all projects are based on NEED and potential for impact.
Allocate funding based on an impartial cost-benefit analysis to prevent any pet projects from being funded at the town's expense.
Encourage and promote fundraising campaigns to fund projects that will not cost the taxpayer money.