KAREN HERRICK PUSHES FOR NEW TAX POWERS — WHILE READING RESIDENTS ALREADY FACE RISING COSTS
Reading families are already feeling the squeeze, and any move by an elected official to support new taxation authority deserves close attention. Before advocating for additional “tax levers,” leaders should fully understand and clearly communicate the financial pressures residents are already carrying. That is why an incident involving Select Board member Karen Herrick at the January 24, 2026 Massachusetts Municipal Association (MMA) meeting has become a serious concern.
Why Residents Should Care
- Rising local costs: Electric surcharges through the Green Communities program, higher trash fees for second barrels, tiered water rates that penalize larger households, and an expected operational override
- A push for even more taxing authority: Herrick supported the “Municipal Empowerment Act,” which would give towns new ways to raise taxes
- A vote cast without authorization: She acted as if she represented the entire Select Board, despite being told she could not
These points matter because they directly affect residents’ wallets — and the trust they place in their elected officials.
What Happened
At the MMA’s annual meeting, Herrick cast a vote endorsing the Municipal Empowerment Act, a statewide initiative designed to give municipalities additional tax levers to raise revenue. This vote implied that Reading supported expanding local taxation powers, even though the Select Board had never discussed or approved such a position. More troubling, Herrick had been informed in advance that she was not authorized to vote on behalf of the town.
A six‑year board veteran should clearly understand the limits of individual authority, especially when the issue at hand is potential new taxes for residents already stretched thin.
Why It’s a Problem
The primary issue is substance: advocating for expanded taxing power at a time when residents are already facing higher costs across multiple services. The secondary issue is protocol: an elected official acting unilaterally, without authorization, on a matter that directly affects household budgets.
Let’s be clear about what the Municipal Empowerment Act represents: more ways to increase taxes.
The Board’s Response
The Select Board unanimously voted to rescind Herrick’s unauthorized vote and formally notify the MMA that she was not empowered to represent Reading (see notification letter below and Select Board agenda topic here at 1:29:32). This corrective action underscores how seriously the board viewed the breach and reinforces the importance of following established procedures.
What Reading Deserves
This is not about personalities. It is about responsible representation, transparency, and ensuring that no new taxes — or new tax powers — are pursued without clear necessity, accountability, and voter support. Reading deserves leadership that respects both the rules and the people who pay the bills.
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