By Anne L. Gallivan
posted
Oct 18, 2012
As a candidate for state representative for Bridgewater,
Chittenden, Killington and Mendon, I have been listening to the
concerns of voters. All four towns share in the struggle to
preserve quality school programs amidst shrinking enrollments and
challenging tax rates. I believe that educational excellence should
not be compromised, but instead strengthened by focusing on the
creation of a robust local economy. Young families should be able
to find work and homes here, and to fill our good schools to
capacity.
Our current economic climate presents challenges for the entire
country, as many of the old industrial and retail models have
become obsolete. We need a newly prescribed foundation of work to
revitalize the way we do business. In Vermont, we have been
resilient and self-reliant, but we need to actively recruit the
kinds of businesses we believe are a good fit for our
well-protected and tourist-attracting environment. I will work to
support initiatives aimed at attracting opportunities to our
area.
Another issue that comes up often is health care reform. A
seismic shift in our system makes everyone nervous, but as it is
carefully developed, it will free us from the tether of
employer-based insurance. It will liberate small businesses,
contain health care costs, and provide true preventive care,
instead of a costly safety net, for all. Just as our social
security system was met with early doubters, a new health care
system is met with great uncertainties, but the whole point is to
address the current crisis. Astronomic rises in costs and barriers
to treatment are not acceptable, and improved outcomes are
expected.
I am listening to all of the voices in our community, and even
when I see a clear path from my own perspective, I will make it my
job to bring everyone's ideas to the table for discussion. Sincere
collaborative and negotiation will move us forward.
