Lower Merion Citizens for Responsible Budgeting (CRB)

Lower Merion Citizens for Responsible Budgeting (CRB) speaks for all residents who share its concerns about increasing taxes and unrestrained government spending in Lower Merion Township

History and Action Items

CRB was born during the 2007 budgeting process when systemic problems in Lower Merion’s budgeting process became apparent. Problems with process often lead to undesirable policy outcomes for taxpayers. This was the case with the 2007 Budget when a majority of Lower Merion Commissioners voted for a 2% real estate tax increase. At over 22%, the 2006 ending general fund balance (reserves) was quite strong and the tax increase was clearly not needed.

CRB calls for Lower Merion Township to:

1. Identify and implement the documented and well-established best practices for local government financial policy and management.

2. Determine financial benchmarks for spending and measure progress on a regular basis throughout the year.

3. Develop strategies to reward for innovative financial management and spending restraint.

4. Advance the budget process to a point earlier in the year.

5. Prioritize public participation and develop approaches to increase public participation.

Additionally, the 2007 Budget hearings demonstarted a preference by a many of our current Commissioners to increase taxes incrementally each year. It is apparent that some commissioners believe taxpayers will not notice small increases, and that small tax increases are easier to effect than spending restraint.

CRB acknowledges its access to Township staff and the Board’s ad hoc Budget Committee, but notes that more is required than politely listening to the concerns of Township residents. Action is needed. Without action, the Lower Merion Board of Commissioners will indeed raise our taxes every year and excessive tax rates will ultimately threaten the quality of life for many in Lower Merion.

CRB’s goal is to increase public awareness of the budget process and to promote and influence the enactment of common sense fiscal policy in Lower Merion Township. CRB looks forward to working with other civic groups and Lower Merion Township to increase public participation in the budget process.