An Issue important for all us

This isn't just a "part-timer issue." Here's why full-time residents should want better policy.

You're Not Getting the Best Help Possible Under the current proposal:

• Your wealthy neighbor (income $250K, assets $5M) gets $1,390 tax break
• You (income $40K, assets $50K) get $1,390 tax break .

Same benefit. Regardless of need - is that a good idea?

(With Means Testing Like Lexington)

• Your wealthy neighbor gets $0
• You get $2,000 PLUS access to deferrals
• More help goes to people who actually need it

Would you rather have $1,390 in a system that helps everyone equally, or $2,000+ in a system that targets those who struggle?

Community Cohesion Matters

Part-time residents aren't tourists. They:

• Serve on town committees and boards
• Volunteer at libraries, churches, nonprofits
• Donate to local causes
• Support local businesses year-round
• Pay 66% of residential property taxes

If this drives out middle-class part-time families:

• Only wealthy second-home owners can afford to stay
• Chatham loses multi-generational families
• Civic engagement drops
• Community character changes

Full-timers lose too.

Fiscal Responsibility Benefits Everyone

• Chatham's approach: $5.4M shifted annually
• Helps 3,257 households (rich and poor equally)
• No verification, no accountability

Targeted approach (circuit breakers):

• Costs ~$500K-$800K annually
• Helps 250-350 households who actually struggle
• Same or MORE relief to those in need
• Savings: $4.6M per year