In this episode, Jim O'Connell discusses his candidacy for the Executive Council of New Hampshire, outlining the council's significant powers, including contract approvals, judicial appointments, and infrastructure planning. He emphasizes the need for a pragmatic approach to governance, focusing on local control and effective management of state resources. We also dive into Question 2 on the ballot and why voting "No," actually helps retain local control.

Takeaways

• Executive Council's significant influence
• Question 2

Chapters

• 00:00 Understanding the Executive Council
• 05:59 The Power Dynamics of Appointments
• 06:54 Infrastructure and Transportation Challenges
• 11:33 Judicial Appointments and Ethical Concerns
• 22:19 The Role of the Executive Council in Education
• 26:42 Jim O'Connell's Vision and Goals

Website: https://oconnellfornh.com/

Catch up on what happened at the last Board of Mayor and Aldermen (BoMA) meeting (10/06/26) before you watch the next (10/20/26)! Public comment was lengthy but covered a variety of topics-including a proposed ban on kratom. Financial reports for 2025 were presented and the BoMA voted on a replacement School Board Member for Ward 7. It got a little awkward, and a little heated.

Takeaways

• Local governance matters
• Community engagement is crucial

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Local Issues
• 02:58 The Kratom Debate
• 08:13 Financial Oversight and School Funding
• 15:14 School Board Vacancy and Candidate Selection
• 30:02 Conclusion and Community Engagement

Resources

10/06/26 BoMA Agenda and Minutes

MPTV 10/06/26 BoMA episode

www.spillthegoods603.com

Did you know, NH has the lowest minimum wage in New England? And that, it hasn't changed in 17 years? In this episode, Jess Spillers and Cristina Goodwin discuss the critical issue of minimum wage in New Hampshire with guest, Rep. Kathy Staub. They explore the history, current state, and implications of minimum wage laws, examining the difference between a minimum wage and a livable age while emphasizing the need for advocacy and the positive economic impact a raise of the minimum wage would have on communities.

Takeaways

• Minimum wage advocacy importance
• Economic impact of wage increases

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Minimum Wage Advocacy
• 02:19 History of Minimum Wage in New Hampshire
• 04:41 Comparative Minimum Wage Analysis
• 06:04 Living Wage vs. Minimum Wage
• 08:24 The Exploitation of Workers
• 10:41 Impact on Small Businesses
• 12:09 Community Economic Health
• 14:25 Spending and Economic Circulation

References:

NH Fiscal Policy Institute: Living Expenses, Financial Vulnerability, and Poverty in New Hampshire Fact Sheet

MIT Living Wage Calculator: New Hampshire

Website: www.spillthegoods603.com