Issue Position: A Healthy Economy

Issue Position

The future of Vermont depends on a healthy economy. A strong economy provides jobs, lifts people out of poverty, and reduces the pressure on an already overburdened social services system. With a virtually flat rate of growth, an aging population, fewer young people and young families in Vermont, we need to develop policies and practices that provide opportunities for our citizens which will in turn strengthen our economy.

Support for local businesses: We need to build on Vermont's strengths: a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurism, vibrant downtowns, working lands, and an incredible natural beauty. In my current role as Executive Director of the Addison County Economic Development Corp., I work daily with our small businesses and entrepreneurs to get them the resources they need to start a business or grow their business. I am a strong believer in "economic gardening" or "grow your own" local businesses. These entrepreneurs and business owners are our friends and neighbors and they make a significant contribution to our local economy. We need to provide them with the tools, infrastructure, and transparent processes to allow them to thrive.

Workforce Housing: A critical component to a healthy economy is housing. In particular, workforce housing is needed to keep people and good jobs in Vermont. Legislation related to a workforce housing pilot project to build housing in designated downtowns nearly made it through this legislative session with the blessing of virtually everyone in the Statehouse, on both sides of the aisle. In the end, legislators weren't able to find the funding to move it forward. When I am in the legislature, I will make this important issue a priority.

Source