Al Howland for State Representative

I am twenty eight year Durham resident running for my third term representing Strafford 20 in the New Hampshire House.  Last term, I  served on the House Housing Committee and sponsored two pro-housing bills that were signed into law.   In addition to my House duties, I served as  Chair of the Strafford County Delegation, and am moderator for the Oyster River School District.  Over the last four years, I have seen our state reduce investment in housing, continue to underfund public education, and reduce state revenue sources, resulting in high local property taxes and an unaffordable housing market.  Investing in communities to better serve their residents is my priority for the next legislative session.

Unaffordable housing is a barrier to expanding New Hampshire’s economy.   The Affordable Housing fund, Housing Champions program, and regional and municipal planning grants have  proven records of helping towns add housing.  Funding for these programs was cut in last budget and needs to be restored.  Maine and Vermont have passed legislation that encourages building missing middle housing, with the added benefit of helping new developers gain the experience needed to continue investing  in their communities.  New Hampshire should replicate this legislation.  Additionally, the new federal Housing for the 21 Century Act makes important changes to manufactured and modular housing regulations, and New Hampshire law should be updated to reflect these changes.  I plan on introducing legislation next session to address both these issues.   

The state has prioritized funding an unregulated and expensive school voucher program while  ignoring court orders to adequately fund local school districts.  This needs to stop.  I support fair school funding and feel our focus should be on improving instruction rather than demonizing teachers.

Strafford County provides nursing care for elderly and disabled residents.  Unfortunately, the facility is outdated and does not meet current nursing home requirements.  Over the last 6 months,  I formed a county delegation working group to examine the county’s obligation, and are working with the county commissioners to  develop a financially viable project.    Additionally, the County partnered with the cities of Somersworth, Dover, and Rochester and together are building a new warming center on County land. This creative partnership will help meet a regional need.   If elected,  I will continue to work on building these types of partnerships to help meet the county’s obligations.

I respectfully ask for your vote in November so I can continue to work to support our communities. 

Thank you,

Al Howland