Paul Roberts

At-Large

1. Why are you running for City Council?
I am concerned with the out of control spending, high debt service (currently 73 million) that Lebanon has. Plus the millions of dollars each year in budgeting for operations, new projects. We currently have 80 million dollars of new projects that have been temporarily tabled. I have also personally asked questions at council meetings and never received answers. I believe we need to think outside the box. Again what was essential during covid. There is a large difference from ‘Needs vs Wants”, which we appear to have lost sight of.

2. What skills and experiences would you bring to the position?
Born and Raised in Lebanon. Worked in the Lebanese Government, Public Safety. I have also worked for Hanover, Lyme, Lebanon, and Plainfield Police, retiring as the Police Chief. I have also worked in the state judicial branch. I have owned private businesses to serve the public and still have a Consulting business in Lebanon that serves the public. Through public government service, I’m knowledgeable about city operations and fully aware of government structure and processes. I am familiar with State Government and state laws. I am also an experienced Upper Valley business owner and aware of the challenges of our local economy

3. What’s one thing you want other people to know about you?
I will represent the taxpayer. I find it odd that no councilor claims to represent any oath or pledge to our residents, only the State and Federal governments. This will have to change.

4. What are your top 2 priorities that you want to address if you win?
Establish Better planning, using all the tools such as Finance Advisory Commitee so that people understand the results of the Council voting. Establishing what the residences want for the City. Not what City Hall or the Larger businesses want. but the towns people. To get spending under control for a sustainable budgeting. This includes getting the master plan up to date. (Last touched in 2012)

5. Lebanon, like many other cities, is facing challenges with rising property taxes. If the city were required to reduce spending, which service or program would you consider for reduction first? Which should be protected most strongly from cuts?
I think all government services could trim more and get back to the essential services that we needed. I would start by looking back at what was needed during the covid crises.

6. Lebanon is home to residents from widely varying economic, generational, and cultural backgrounds. Please share a few ideas for how to make Lebanon a place where these residents can thrive.
I would start by listening to residents and holding a town hall-style meeting to ensure everyone has a voice and is accessible to the community.

7. What’s the best way for voters to reach you?
My Cell phone 603-727-8731 or Email, NHPMR@OUTLOOK.COM