Vermont Business Magazine Phil Scott, candidate for Governor, released a comprehensive economic development plan at a press conference today, reinforcing his commitment to making the economy and affordability his top priorities. Joined at the event by 20 legislators and Vermont business leaders, Scott presented his economic plan, which contains more than fifty (50) specific proposals, initiatives, and ideas to strengthen the economy and make Vermont more affordable.
This comprehensive blueprint for Scott’s economic initiatives represents the most comprehensive plan presented by a candidate for Governor, giving voters a clear view of how Scott’s Administration will lead.
Debbie Winters, who owns Firetech Sprinkler in Colchester and hosted Thursday’s event, offered context for why economic development is the biggest issue for her in this election:
“I am so honored that Phil Scott came to Firetech to talk about his plan for what I think are the most important issue facing Vermonters and Vermont businesses today – affordability and economic strength,” said Winters. “Like all employers, we face many challenges, and our challenges are not unique. For many of Vermont’s contracting firms - and frankly companies across the spectrum - we face the challenge of a shrinking workforce. Phil’s innovative approach to public education will include more hands-on apprenticeships and a focus on technical and trades education.” Winters added. “Phil is a man of his word. I know that he will do everything in his power to make Vermont more affordable and more prosperous for Vermont’s small businesses and for our employees.”
“I am running for Governor to make the economy and affordability the top priorities in Montpelier,” Scott said. “For the last six years, tax and fee increases, healthcare mandates, and one-party rule have caused the cost of living to increase by more than $4,500 for an average household per year, not including property tax increases. The cost of living in Vermont is outpacing growth in many Vermonters’ incomes. My plan offers a new approach that will confront Vermont’s affordability crisis and restore our state’s focus on the economic and fiscal fundamentals that support job retention and creation. Together, we can strengthen the economy, expand the middle class through real growth and lift take-home wages. But we must be focused and work together,” Scott added.
Key pillars of Scott's plan include:
- Protecting jobs and retaining current employers;
- Expanding our workforce and workforce training opportunities;
- Revitalizing our county economic centers, expanding innovation hubs and designating high-tech zones;
- Putting healthcare reform back on track;
- Increasing the availability of good homes working families can afford;
- Advancing pro-growth, pro-jobs tax policy;
- Modernizing state government; and
- Setting parameters to ensure state spending does not grow faster than the economy or your wages.
Scott added that he’s open to additional ideas too.
“This plan represents my starting point for making Vermont more affordable and jumpstarting economic growth,” he said. “I know, however, that no one person, or political party, has a monopoly on good ideas. I’m always looking for input and ideas on how to make Vermont stronger and more affordable. I look forward to working across the aisle, as I have my entire political career, to advance these initiatives when I am Governor, and I am prepared to fight for pro-growth policies that strengthen our economy,” Scott concluded.
Source: Scott campaign 9.15.2016