Tom Marsh 2010

February 4, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Katherine Holt
Marsh 2010
Tel: (860) 526-2003
email:
www.marsh2010.com

Marsh Responds to State of the State Address

Chester, Connecticut — February 4, 2010 — WE HAVE ENOUGH PLANS ON THE SHELF, WE NEED A COMMITMENT TO ACTION.

Almost a year ago to the day, Governor Rell introduced David Osborne, author of the widely respected book "The Price of Government." Osborne spoke before a full house that included the governor's budget director, commissioners, legislators and union officials. Marsh, a strong supporter of Osborne’s work, felt this was a great first step in setting the tone for what was certainly going to be a difficult budget process.

Unfortunately, Marsh notes, after the platitude’s expressed by both sides following the presentation, Osborne’s words were ignored. His work now sits along with many other plans on the shelf in Hartford.

“Now is not the time for another blue ribbon committee, this is a short session with serious issues before it”, Marsh notes. Someone must take a leadership role and address the systemic problems within state governance. “I can’t believe that the executive and legislative branches honestly don’t know what needs to be done. I believe it is a question of their fortitude and commitment to take on the issues.”

When it comes to revenue Marsh has similar concerns asking; “does the state really need more gambling”

referring to the resurrected proposal to bring keno to Connecticut.

Nothing in the address will give the business community, the un- or- under employed, municipalleaders, or families sitting around the dinner table confidence that the state’s fiscal situation is being taken seriously. The tuition reimbursements, and tax incentives are nibbles at the edges, we need focused, committed leadership.

Marsh believes the tools are in place to bring about meaningful change. “We have a diversified tax structure, we need to fine tune it and make it more productive. We also need to share more revenue with municipal governments to take advantage of their prudent budgeting practices, and help relieve the dependence on property tax. State government needs to improve the services only they can provide, while listening to local leaders and allowing them to do more locally or through voluntary regional efforts.” This can be accomplished quickly, without another commission study, if all parties will set aside their partisan bickering and commit to Connecticut’s future.