Real Estate Tax Exemption (RTE)

The proposed Residential Tax Exemption is one of several tools available to support year-round residents—but it’s important to be clear about what it does, and what it doesn’t.

RTE shifts a portion of the tax burden from year-round homeowners to higher-value and seasonal properties. It may provide some relief to qualifying residents, but it is not a need-based program, and it does not address the underlying challenges facing our community. It needs to be thought through before any decisions are made. People need to understand the risks and benefits. Clear communication is a guiding principle I live by every day. As a trained and experienced mediator, I understand that productive and respectful dialogue is the path to success.

Our larger issue is the continued loss of year-round housing. Many long-term rentals have shifted to short-term use, reducing availability for local workers and families.

That’s why I support measures like “Lease to Locals,” which are designed to encourage property owners to keep units in the year-round rental market. These approaches are more directly tied to strengthening our community.

As the Select Board considers whether to adopt RTE, defer it, or modify it, I will focus on one question: does this policy meaningfully support a stable, year-round Chatham?

We should continue to explore all available tools—including targeted tax relief for seniors, veterans, and residents in need—while prioritizing policies that address housing availability first.