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Massachusetts
faces one great challenge and one great opportunity. The challenge: To
protect our environment, reduce the threat of global warming while
sustaining economic growth. The opportunity is the same as the
challenge.
Though some conservatives insist we cannot
meet the challenge without destroying the opportunity, Massachusetts
is proving them wrong. We can, however, do better.
Massachusetts is already starting to grow
our economy with great paying jobs, and increasing our tax base by
encouraging new business in fields such as renewable energy, green
building and recycling.
Cambridge
is booming with businesses
that recognize, value and capitalize on the urgent need for
environmentally sound products, services and development. From
Metabolix, Inc., which develops biodegradable plastics, to Tiax LLC,
which creates batteries used in hybrid vehicles to the Cambridge
Cohousing development, which was featured by the EPA in its study of
energy efficient housing. There are dozens more, all successfully
meeting both the challenge and the opportunity.
If elected state senator for
the Essex, Middlesex and Suffolk seat recently vacated by Jarrett
Barrios, I will continue to promote development in renewable energy
and energy conservation, and strongly support business initiatives
that take a responsible approach toward our environment. Such support
from the state has already helped create great jobs and position
Massachusetts as a leader in these areas.
The challenge and the
opportunity, however, still remain. We can and must do more to plan
for the future of our state and region. Our natural wealth of talent
should be fostered and supported by the state. As Senator, I will
work hard to foster partnerships with the area’s colleges and
universities to develop and grow alternative and efficient energy
projects and developments throughout the district. Cultivating such
development will serve the twin goals of protecting our environment
while encouraging graduates to remain in the state and significantly
growing our tax base.
We in
Massachusetts need leaders with a strong vision and a good sense of
balance to plan for a truly sustainable future. We can meet the
challenge head-on, we must take advantage of the opportunity, and with
your vote on September 11, I would like to do exactly that.
Jeff Ross |
