For over two decades, the Republican majority in Little Compton has proudly campaigned on our low property tax rates. Our town's rural character, substantial tax base—bolstered by oceanfront properties—and the 4% tax increase limit imposed by state law are significant factors contributing to our low tax burden. From my seat on the Budget Committee, I can tell you that the low taxes in our town are not primarily due to our political majority.

 However, low taxes alone do not create or sustain a thriving community. We are currently facing a housing affordability crisis; our seniors and young families struggle to stay due to rising costs and a lack of services. Instead of developing long-term plans to anticipate and mitigate emerging challenges, the current leadership—run by one party—has consistently chosen to "kick the can down the road," allowing issues to escalate into crises.

 In recent candidate forums, Council President Mushen emphasized his approach to slow down progress, treating delay as a virtue rather than a hindrance. Similarly, Councilman Golembeske and candidate Rego expressed reservations about regulating short-term rentals, citing their commitment to unfettered capitalism. While free-market principles have their place, they should not come at the expense of our people and the generations of families who are being priced out.

 This laissez-faire attitude toward housing and land policies jeopardizes our community's future. Last year, the Ag Trust nearly faced demise when the Budget Committee considered not recommending the proposed transfer tax rate. This gem is as threatened as our school's future, given the mentality displayed by Republicans at the candidate forum. If we continue on this path, we risk losing what makes us special. Our council's Republican majority seems purposely absent in planning for the town's future, and their reluctance to embrace necessary changes is alarming.

 Moreover, the party's policies have influenced the town for decades—from resisting funding for solar panels on our school to neglecting the upkeep of our public safety complex, resulting in moldy, musty work and living conditions. Lack of capital and contingency planning is common; the council neglected to install proper drainage for the newly paved Meetinghouse Lane, jeopardizing its longevity. All point to one thing: delay is rewarded at the ballot box.

 For me, the icing on the cake was when several Republican candidates, current councilman appeared “unaware” that our police chief has been delaying the release of timely and complete police logs, hindering transparency. This pattern of inaction suggests they hope minimal effort will suffice on election day because taxes are low.

 Local elections are about more than party identity; they're about electing individuals committed to making a tangible difference in the daily lives of our townspeople. Unfortunately, the Republicans on the council vote as a bloc most of the time, and their majority takes pride in kicking the can. It's time for leadership that prioritizes planning, transparency, and the well-being of all residents over complacency—and that requires a non-Republican majority.

Andrew L. Rhyne, PhD

Little Compton