League of Women Voters of Massachusetts Citizen Education Fund
	Middlesex, Worcester County, MA September 16, 2008 Election
	Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues State Representative; Third Middlesex District; Democratic Party

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of Massaschusetts and asked of all candidates for this office.     See below for questions on Employment, Infrastructure, Education Click on a name for candidate information.   See also more information about this contest. 1. What proposals do you have to increase employment opportunities in Massachusetts? Answer from Leonard H. "Len" Golder: I have filed a bill in the state legislature to give a tax reduction to businesses that move into Mass and create at least 50 new jobs. I would extend this bill to include current businesses and give tax relief for the creation of any jobs, including self employed business. Answer from Ellen S. Sturgis: We have to improve the climate for businesses in the state, particularly with tax credits for the industries (such as biotech and green) that we have a good start on already. A critical issue, however, is finding ways to make housing more affordable: we are driving the next generation of workers away because of the cost of living. 2. How will you rectify problems with aging Massachusetts infrastructure, especially bridges and tunnels? Answer from Leonard H. "Len" Golder: I have filed legislation that would create tolls along the Mass-NH border-which is currently done on the NH side of the border. The money collected would be dedicted to our transportation needs, with the repair of our infrastructure as a priority. 3. Governor Patrick has proposed a wide-ranging plan to transform education in the Commonwealth. What do you see as the top priorities in his plan and what funding mechanism do you feel will enable their successful implementation? Answer from Leonard H. "Len" Golder: Early childhood education is important as studies have shown this to be a critical stage for educational success. I would start even earlier with assruance of good prenatal care. Education should be funded primarily by the state , relieving local government and property taxes of much of the burden they now incur.In addition to increased state aid, the state should give prperty tax rebates to moderate income homeowners who live in communities that increase their education funding. These funds should be implemented as state revenue increases. In that regard, i would increase business and employment to grow the economy. Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' responses are not edited or corrected by the League. The order of the candidates is random and changes daily. Candidates who did not respond are not listed on this page.