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Friday, January 18th, 2008
This week at the Statehouse, the discussions began around energy costs, healthcare reform and revenue projections for the state economy. The legislative economist concurred with the administrations economist and projected a very tight fiscal year. The budget process will probably be very contentious this year because no one is going to want to be responsible for under funding or cutting programs that serve the citizens of our state.
I have been immersed in discussions surrounding housing all week. I have participated in meetings with the Speaker, the Governor and several other housing stakeholders about how to create new housing opportunities in Vermont. The shortage of affordable or workforce housing is creating a large economic problem for the State as well as employers, employees and their families. We need to pass legislation this session that will help create new housing units for this sector of society. I can see that serving on the housing committee will afford me an opportunity to help shape the future of housing in Vermont.
Our committee took testimony from several different parties on housing issues this week as well. The most controversial issue is a bill that would create a rental housing registry. This bill would mandate an annual registration fee and inspections on a regular basis for all rental properties owned by for profit landlords. I have many concerns with the bill in its current form and will work to improve it during the session.
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. Nothing to report on these issues this week.
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 enjoy representing you and your concerns in Montpelier. I am also very interested in hearing from you during the session or at anytime throughout the year. I encourage you to contact me if you have any questions, comments or issues of concern. 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.