NH House Testimony

HB1105

House · 2026 sessionRepublicanDied in House

Four-year terms for Belknap officials

AI

Changes the term of office for certain Belknap county elected officials to four years.

making the term of office for certain Belknap county elected officials 4 years.

CountiesElections

Status

Died on the table in the House · February 5, 2026
  1. Introduced
  2. House
  3. Senate
  4. Governor
  5. Law

Division of testimony

28 submissions
Support 22Oppose 5Neutral 1
Sue HigginsSupportLaconia, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

I think a two year term is a distraction from the important work of a county official, especially a sheriff. By the end of two years you are just getting in your groove now you have to campaign again. Four years is a much better term limit for this position

ronnie abbottSupportGilford, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

I am in support of this bill because far too often the time and energy of our elected officials is consumed by the constant pressure of campaigning for the next election rather than focusing on the work they were elected to do. The people elected them to govern, and to make decisions in the best interest of the public not to remain in a perpetual state of political fundraising and positioning. This bill helps shift the focus back to service and accountability, allowing officials to dedicate their attention to meaningful governance and long-term outcomes instead of short-term political survival.

Jason SproulOpposeLaconia, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

As a Belknap County resident, this bill is an unnecessary restriction on the rights of voters in our county to have responsive and accountable elected officials. Standing for election every two years is not a special burden on these particular offices; it is a constitutional responsibility that honest public servants welcome.

Georgina LambertOpposeBelmont, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Opposition Testimony on HB 1105: Making the Term of Office for Certain Belknap County Elected Officials 4 Years As a resident of Belknap County and someone deeply concerned about the implications of gerrymandering evident since December 6, 2020, I vehemently oppose HB 1105. This bill, which proposes extending the term of office for certain county officials to four years, fundamentally undermines the principles of accountability and representation that are crucial to our democratic processes. Changing the term length from two to four years risks entrenching power within existing political structures, making it more difficult for marginalized communities to voice their concerns and effect meaningful change. In a political landscape already marred by gerrymandering, such a move would dilute the voices of those who feel disenfranchised, especially in historically underrepresented groups. This is not merely a procedural adjustment; it is a step away from fostering a responsive and responsible government that genuinely reflects the diverse interests of our community. Moreover, the lack of timely elections limits the electorate's ability to hold public officials accountable for their actions. With each passing year, the disconnect between elected officials and their constituents can grow, exacerbating feelings of alienation and discontent within already marginalized populations. We must prioritize legislation that empowers voters rather than consolidating power, and I urge you to reject this bill in the interest of equitable representation. Thank you.

Laura LapointeSupportBelmont, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

As the current Belknap County Register I am in full support of this bill. The Belknap County Registry is a small office consisting of myself and 2 full-time employees which is the minimum level required to perform daily functions, therefore my position as the Register is a full-time working position. Changing the term to 4 years would provide more stability and more time to make meaningful improvements. I apologize for not being able to attend in person.

Raye Ellen DouvilleOpposeGilford, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Absolutely not. Recent issues with those in this office show a need for vigilance. A four year stint is unwarranted and goes against NH tradition.

Johnna DavisOpposeGilford, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

As a Belknap County resident I don't see any logical reason for this bill.

Douglas RobinsonSupportLaconia, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Gisele LambertSupportGilford, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Douglas LambertSupportGilford, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Krystie SullivanSupportGilford, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Kirsten LangeSupportBelmont, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Paul LangeSupportBelmont, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

James McIntireSupportGilford, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Michael BrewerSupportGilford, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Jill BrewerSupportGilford, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Douglas TrottierSupportBelmont, NHfor Belknap District 8Jan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Briana OHaraSupportBelmont, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

nate joyceSupportCtr Barnstead, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Travis OHaraSupportBelmont, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

michael LupoliSupportCtr Barnstead, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Roxanne LupoliSupportCtr Barnstead, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Vincent J Lupoli SRSupportCtr Barnstead, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Teresa WrightSupportBelmont, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.

Vanessa TrottierSupportBelmont, NHfor MyselfJan 13, 2026

Position recorded without written comment.