NH Local Government Center ordered to open their books

fuels the speculation of possible corruption or unethical practices with taxpayer monies. Over the last few years we have seen increased vigilance from our citizenry when it comes to the subject of political corruption or in this case possible unethical behavior on the part of a private organization that uses public monies. Time and time again we read of scandals from public officials and the use of our taxpayer dollars inappropriately and quite frankly we are tired of it.

Why would an organization that uses taxpayer dollars want to hide their financial records from public view? Even after having the N.H. Superior Court mandate that they need to open their books, they are now contemplating whether or not to appeal that ruling; further delaying the opening of their books? What, if anything, are they are trying to hide? If the Local Government Center is using taxpayer dollars to appropriately administer the Municipal Health Trust to cities and towns, no problem, life goes on. However if they are misusing those taxpayer dollars then their policies and procedures need to change and the money needs to be used appropriately. More importantly if the money is being used for other than what it was intended for, they need to be held accountable.

In a steep economic downturn, like we are currently experiencing, every penny counts. If there is a possibility that money that is being provided to the Local Government Center for health insurance can be returned to those participating cities and towns to offset the increase in taxes, then it should be. The only way to determine how the money is being spent — is to look at their financial records. This idea that many cities and towns are looking to save money are echoed by the Local Government Center's Board Chairman Dave Caron who stated in part, "especially during tight financial times, cities and towns are doing everything they can to save money."

The citizens have a right to know where their money is being spent. Many citizens in N.H. look to The Citizen for news and information. Providing the N.H. citizen with the information regarding the Local Government Center and especially how their taxpayer dollars are being spent will continue to demonstrate the Citizen's newspaper commitment to informing the citizens on important matters that occur within the state.

Officer John Stewart
Community Relations Coordinator
Keene Police Officers Association
Keene