SMITHFIELD – Currently, departmental capital purchases of more than $10,000 require approval by a majority vote of the Smithfield Town Council. Ballot Question 19 asks voters to approve or reject a $20,000 increase, for a new threshold of $30,000, says Councilor Rachel Toppi.
“Raising the capital threshold may seem like a practical way to speed purchasing, but convenience shouldn’t outweigh accountability,” she stated in a release.
“Keeping the current threshold ensures that significant spending receives council review, appears on public agendas, and gives residents an opportunity to ask questions,” she added. “This oversight also maintains a healthy balance between administrators and elected officials who answer directly to taxpayers.”
Raising the limit reduces transparency, allows projects to grow in cost or scope without timely discussion, and weakens consideration of broader community priorities, added Toppi.
“Preserving the current threshold helps protect public trust, fiscal discipline, and open government when major community investments are considered for the benefit of everyone involved,” she said. “Therefore, I’m urging Smithfield voters to reject Question 19.”
