Charles Reese

I am writing in opposition to HB 314. I oppose any action by our state legislature that restricts the ability of our municipalities to conduct their own business. A community has the ability to not fund the activities this bill proposes to restrict through their own budget process. A community should have the right to hire a lobbyist, pay an employee to testify before the legislature or have members of volunteer boards speak to pending legislation. This is clearly an attempt by sponsors to stifle political dialog, to decrease a community’s ability to express concern about legislation and political activism at its very core. Frankly, I oppose the various bills that override the local zoning to promote more affordable housing. I urge defeat of HB 314. Do not allow the legislature to limit a citizen’s right to voice their opinion either as an individual or as a member of a community.