By LISA SHIN
Chair
Republican Party of Los Alamos

Dear Friends:

Great news! The ordinance to increase our local GRT rate (Gross Receipts Tax) was voted down this past Tuesday on a narrow vote 4-3.

Many thanks to Councilors Reagor, Hand, Cull, and Ryti for ensuring that we can truly benefit from our Governor’s tax reforms! Citizens certainly did not need an increase in living expenses and our small business owners did not need additional operating costs. Effective July 1, 2023, there will be much needed tax relief for all citizens and businesses in Los Alamos, with a local GRT rate change from 7.1875% to 7.0625%.

For now, state legislation passed in 2022 to reduce our tax burdens are not short-lived for Los Alamos. Health care providers can take full advantage of a new tax exemption on insurance copays and deductibles, with no looming increase in local GRT rates.

Both sides were well represented at the Council-hosted town hall on minimum wage, with respectful and civil dialogue (Watch the Youtube video here). With the vast majority of employers in Los Alamos already paying $15+/hour (myself included), this ordinance would negatively impact smaller and less established businesses, especially our restaurants. More people would simply choose to do all their shopping and dining off the hill. There was no action taken, but we can expect more discussion and possible Council action in the future.  

Thanks to all who made public comments and wrote to our County Council on these matters!

Upcoming Events in July:   

• July 4: RPLA table at the Overlook Park Independence Day celebration, 4-10 p.m. We will have fun, games and prizes for the kids!
• July 8: RPLA Candidate Training by Bill Redmond, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Open Door Bible Church. Brunch will be served.
• July 20: RPLA Central Committee Meeting, 6-8 p.m. at Open Door Bible Church (2101 Trinity Dr. Ste A-2).

See you soon!  

Contact RPLA Chair Lisa Shin at leadership@losalamosgop.com, 505.310.3254 or www.losalamosgop.com