Goffstown lawmaker introduces bill to let voters choose appointed school treasurer

Representative Joe Alexander, R‑Goffstown, introduced a bill on behalf of SAU 19 that would allow school districts to submit a warrant article asking voters to move from electing a school treasurer to appointing one.

“Voters can choose to put it on the ballot, and then that process can be changed if it passes on town warrant on town meeting day,” Alexander said. He described the measure as “enabling legislation that follows what towns can already do” for municipal treasurers.

Business administrator Paul Gross of SAU 19 told the committee that the statute defining a treasurer’s duties (RSA 197:23‑a) is extensive and that, in practice, many of the technical finance tasks are performed by district business offices. Gross said appointed treasurers with finance backgrounds can improve continuity and allow necessary expertise when a district must complete bank reconciliations, collateral management and other time‑sensitive functions.

“Right now, there is a school and a town treasurer,” Gross said of the disparity in some communities. “This gives school districts the opportunity to have their voters decide whether they wish to have their treasurer appointed.” He added that the change is optional and would be decided locally by voters.

Committee members asked whether the bill would alter existing checks and balances and whether appointed treasurers would receive stipends; witnesses said contracts and audit requirements remain in place and that some appointed treasurers perform duties as part of their municipal finance roles without extra compensation.

No committee vote or executive‑session action was recorded during the hearing; the bill was presented, and staff and advocates offered technical answers to members’ questions.