New Hampshire's traditions of strong local control and town-based governance are deeply rooted in the state's politics and culture. But we at the Center have lately been thinking of ways that more cross-border, regional approaches might improve decision-making across the state.
On many vital policy topics -- water use, transportation policy, housing, economic development, to name a few -- regional thinking may yield better outcomes than a simple statewide or town-centered approach.
We explored the idea in a recent column for Business NH Magazine (which you can find here.) And we've also given recent presentations on regional thinking in the Upper Valley and the Seacoast. In addition, we're currently working with the Monadnock United Way to help people in that part of the state understand regional needs, challenges and opportunities.
One obstacle: New Hampshire does not have many institutions with policy-making authority at the regional level. What are some ways to encourage more regional thinking, planning and decision-making in the state? We'd love to hear your ideas.
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