State Senator James L. Seward announced the launch of a new online survey, “The Next Steps to a Stronger Economy,” designed to gather public input on economic development initiatives to further private sector job growth.
The announcement was made Thursday, August 25.
New York is faced with major economic challenges that need head-on tackling, according to Seward.
“During this year’s legislative session I worked in partnership with Governor Cuomo and my senate colleagues to cut state spending, hold the line on taxes and put forward constructive job creating incentives. There is still a great deal of work to do and I want to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to offer input.”
The special section of Senator Seward’s website, www.senatorjimseward.com, includes an online poll calling on respondents to prioritize the next steps needed to enhance job creation in New York state.
The job creating priorities listed for ranking are:
• Keep cutting taxes;
• Invest more in public education;
• Reduce government mandates and regulations;
• Give direct tax credits to small business;
• Invest more in local highways, roads and bridges;
• Reduce government spending.
The public can also weigh in with specific thoughts and suggestions with an eye toward private sector job growth and statewide economic improvement.
Seward said he is active with the state’s economic development councils and is looking to bring forward any inventive suggestions the public has to offer.
“My online survey is a perfect tool to gather ideas that may otherwise never be presented to the councils,” Seward added.
In the past, Seward has utilized other online initiatives to develop budget cutting suggestions, generate support for the property tax cap and defeat a plan to force a mandatory license plate replacement program.
“A renewed spirit of cooperation in Albany, coupled with a heavy emphasis on economic development, has New York headed in the right direction,” he said.
“Enlisting public help through this online effort will ensure every quality idea is brought to the table,” Seward added.
