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10/26/2016 08:00 AM

Hardworking and Innovative


State Senator Ted Kennedy, Jr. (D-12) understands full well the challenges facing Connecticut and the shoreline in the years since the start of the global recession. Economic shifts and slow job growth have led to a state budget crisis, with repercussions felt throughout all districts.

Ted has pledged to approach these challenges with hard work and bi-partisan teamwork. Knowing the importance of restoring fiscal soundness, he voted last March to close the 2016 budget shortfall, still maintaining hospital funding, preserving town aid, and funding essential social services.

Ted appreciates the need for a more business-friendly atmosphere, with more cooperation between government and commerce.

Last spring Ted joined with the Shoreline Chamber of Commerce to bring together nearly 200 business and community leaders at the first Shoreline Economic Strategic Planning Summit at the Stony Creek Brewery. As a member of the Madison Economic Development Commission, I was fortunate to attend the multi-panel discussions that acknowledged our region’s advantages and opportunities, while recognizing bureaucratic barriers and regulations. Panel members shared thoughts about the key drivers of economic activity and job growth. There were spirited discussions among people of every political party, all with the common goal of improving the economy of our shoreline towns.

As our state senator, Ted has been active directing state funds to Madison. He’s worked with State Representative Noreen Kokoruda (R-101) to bring $1 million toward the renovation of Scranton Library. Other state assistance came in the form of a STEAP grant of $500,000 for the Strong Center at the Surf Club. A grant of $400,000 will fund improvements to the walkway linking the train station to our downtown.

Ted Kennedy has been an extremely hardworking and innovative spokesperson and agent for all of us. We’re fortunate to have him representing and advocating for us in Hartford.

Anne Foley

Madison