Here’s a link to the Article as it will appear on the Ballot:
What it means: When the Operating Budget is defeated (as it has been in 4 of the last 6 years) non-union town employees do not get their scheduled raises because the “default” budget is defined as last year’s budget, plus any contractual obligations, debt service and the cost of petitioned Warrant Articles. Nothing more. The Town Clerk is requesting that the voters approve a salary increase even if the proposed budget is defeated. If Article 12 (2015 Operating Budget) passes, these funds would come from the Operating Budget, and no additional funds would be expended via Article 45.
Those in favor say: The Hampton Town Clerk is underpaid for her position, based on comparisons with similar-sized towns. The revenue handled and production required of the office has increased over the past several years.
Those against say: No one spoke against the Town Clerk deserving this raise. A concern was expressed, however, that this sets a dangerous precedent because other town employees might also seek to protect their incomes by having separate Warrant Articles for salary increases. The taxpayers are not in a position to evaluate the work of town employees, or whether they are adequately paid.
Fiscal Impact: The average Hampton home valued at $329,000 would bear an increased tax cost of $.44 if this Article passes.