Taxes are a reflection of spending. A robust economy will produce more tax revenue without adding new taxes, or increasing existing tax rates. Sometimes, reducing a tax rate, or eliminating a tax altogether will improve the economy and result in higher tax revenue. The cost structure of our state government must reflect an efficient government so that when times are tough, the state remains fiscally sound. The “rainy day” fund is a key part of this. We invest when times are good, and we conserve to get us through the tough times.

We must always remember that the dollars our government spends come from our wallets. Any perceived need for additional funds should start by examining the money already allocated. Before asking for any more of your hard earned dollars we must make sure the system is running as efficiently as possible. We can reduce state spending by making state government more efficient. An efficient state government will reduce the cost of running departments, putting more “feet-on-the-street” to deliver services.

A more efficient state government will require a plan to implement computers and information technology to track revenue and spending across state government, program by program. The use of technology will also allow the departments to evaluate the performance of various program outcomes, and make improvements, or eliminate unsuccessful programs. This permits the setting of goals and the measurement of performance to goals.

We will use computers and other technology, together with improved policies and procedures to deliver new services, and reduce the cost of running the state.

We need to move New Hampshire state government out of the typewriter and carbon paper era, and into the 21st Century.