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Friday, January 11th, 2008
It's hard to believe that another legislative session has begun. On Tuesday January 8, 2008 I reported back to Montpelier for the start of my third session as a member of the legislature. As with every year, I begin with much anticipation, excitement and optimism. However, this year I feel that I am beginning the session with more optimism than I have ever had. The gavel to start the session fell at approximately 10:15 AM and shortly thereafter I was re-assigned from the Institutions and Corrections Committee to the committee on Housing, General and Military Affairs. This move was initiated by the Speaker of the House after meeting with me here in Milton in early December. I had requested a meeting with the Speaker to discuss housing issues and to share some of my idea's on housing initiatives for the state. After our meeting she contacted me to see if I would be interested in a move to the Housing Committee. This was a great opportunity for me to make a positive difference and I accepted her invitation to be re-assigned. I have been involved in the housing and real estate industries my entire life. Serving on this committee will hopefully give me an opportunity to help shape the future of housing in Vermont.
My new committee also deals with issues pertaining to fire departments and emergency services. Being an active member of the Milton Fire Department for the last twenty-four years will surely enhance my contributions to the discussion in this committee.
I met with Secretary of Transportation Neal Lunderville on Thursday to follow up on a request for an emergency entrance to interstate 89. This would be built near the West Milton Road overpass. Currently, all of Milton's emergency response vehicles travel a twenty plus mile loop in order to respond to a call on the interstate. This is not only dangerous but, it is very costly to the taxpayers of our community. Secretary Lunderville was receptive to the idea and on Friday requested that I submit a more formal and detailed request. I will keep you informed on the progress of this project.
As with the past two sessions, I am very concerned about what it costs us to live here in Vermont. Property taxes, healthcare costs, energy costs and transportation costs continue to spiral out of control. These costs are increasing at far greater rates than our paychecks. Every year we are slipping further and further behind. I feel that we have to do something this legislative session to start addressing these issues.
One of the things I enjoy most about serving in the legislature is hosting friends and constituents at the Statehouse. If you would like to visit the Statehouse please feel free to contact me to arrange a date and time. I look forward to representing you and your concerns in Montpelier.
As your representative, I ask that you please feel free to contact me if you have any questions, comments or concerns. I am very interested in hearing from you during the session. I can be reached at the Statehouse by calling 1-800-322-5616 or by cell at 373-5960. My e-mail address is dturner@leg.state.vt.us. My web-site address is www.donturnerjr.com. Thank you and have a great week.