24th District Election - Pete Steele (R)
By Editor at January 6, 2024 | 11:00 am | Print
All three candidates running for the vacant seat in the 24th District were invited to give a response of 500 words or less on why to vote for them. The following were submitted. The Special Election is scheduled for January 10, 2012.
As the January 10th special election nears, it is critical that the next 24th District State Representative has the experience, leadership skills and political will to tackle our dire financial situation and other pressing issues facing Connecticut.
For too many years, our state legislature has been a hindrance not a help to cities, taxpayers and businesses. Communities like New Britain and Newington are overwhelmed with the struggle of balancing the needs of many with the resources of the few. Instead of providing a helping hand, the state more often than not provides a slap in the face with decreased funding, more regulation and unfunded mandates.
Businesses face a similar cold shoulder from state government– instead of assistance in these bad economic times (or even staying out of the way as businesses try to recover), the state legislature adds to the burden with job disincentives. The most damage is done to the very places where the majority of jobs in Connecticut are coming from: our small and mid-size businesses.
There are two main issues facing Connecticut: jobs and taxes. You cannot fix one without dealing with the other. And to do that requires the state legislature to actively listen to the needs of business owners and pursue a legislative agenda that gives businesses the tools and resources to create jobs. More jobs leads to more disposable income to more housing to a more sustainable tax base to funding to improve education to have a better trained workforce that then brings in employers with better jobs. This cycle of positive economic development does not happen by accident. It requires a legislature willing to create an environment that welcomes business as a partner.
During my eight years with the City of New Britain, I worked closely with large and small businesses who wanted to locate here or expand their existing operations. From Celebration Foods which created over 300 jobs for local residents, to the construction jobs at the new police station, to helping small retail stores expand, I am proud of that work that has given people a helping hand for a better quality of life.
But growing the economy is only part of the answer. Connecticut cannot attract businesses without addressing our high tax rates. Government must do what households and businesses across America are doing – tighten its belt and live within our means. This is the common sense approach and sharpened pencil that I will bring to the state legislature.
Taxpayers in New Britain and Newington cannot afford to elect someone who will just be another cog in a political machine. If elected, I stand ready to make the tough decisions to move our state forward. I stand by the work I have done with hundreds of residents and businesses to cut through red tape and get issues resolved. I look forward to bringing that same level of service to represent the residents of the 24th district at the State Capitol. I ask for your vote on January 10th. Thank you.
