Councilor’s Statement on the City Budget: Why We Cannot Run the City Like a Business

Colleagues, neighbors, and members of our community,

As we gather to decide on this year’s city budget, I want to address a common refrain: Why don’t we run the city like a business? While it may sound appealing on the surface, the reality is that a city is fundamentally different from a corporation in its purpose, priorities, and responsibilities.

A business exists to generate profit for its owners and shareholders. It makes decisions based on financial returns, cutting costs where necessary, and prioritizing efficiency in ways that maximize revenue. But a city is not a business— Our job is not to generate profits but to provide essential services, foster a strong community, ensuring that every resident has access to essential services, infrastructure, and opportunities, regardless of their ability to pay.

A business can choose its customers, cut unprofitable services, and operate solely for financial gain. We do not have that luxury—nor should we. We serve everyone, from our children in public schools to our seniors who rely on fixed incomes. Our duty is to ensure that every street is maintained, every emergency call is answered, and every resident has access to the fundamental services that allow them to live with dignity.

This is especially critical now. At a time when the federal government is mired in dysfunction and political chaos, local government is where real governance happens. We are the ones who ensure trash is collected, water is clean, and neighborhoods are safe. We are the ones investing in infrastructure, schools, and public safety—not based on profit margins but on the needs of our people. When the federal government cuts funding or eliminates a department it is the local government that must pick up the slack.  When the state government does not adequately fund education or infrastructure it is local government and tax payers who make up the difference. 

A well-run city isn’t measured by how much money it saves but by the quality of life it provides. If we focus only on cost-cutting, we risk gutting the very services that make our community livable. Instead, we must budget responsibly while prioritizing what matters most: making our city a place where families can thrive, businesses can grow, and everyone—regardless of income—can have a fair shot at a good life.

I am a tax payer in the city. My children were educated in the city. I have businesses in the city.  The decisions made by the city council and school board effect me as well. 

While Washington and Concord gridlocks, Dover must move forward. That’s what we’re here to do.

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