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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Mike Carroll |
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TO: Editor, Community Express
FROM: State Rep. Mike Carroll, D-Luzerne/Monroe
RE: Monthly column
It has been almost a year since I began my service to you as your state representative. During that time, I have made every effort to meet the needs of the people of Luzerne and Monroe counties in an efficient and professional manner.
As I anticipated, the residents of the 118th District expect their legislator to be a strong voice in Harrisburg, as well as to help them resolve problems they encounter with state government. With the help of an outstanding staff, I believe my efforts have proven productive and I look forward to continuing my service to you.
Since the start of the year, the legislative agenda was dominated by a few high-profile initiatives, including the new state budget, a smoking ban, transportation funding and state government reform.
This fall, we’ve been reviewing equally high-profile initiatives, especially meaningful property tax legislation and open records reform. A Special Session on Energy has also been convened to examine legislative proposals to advance alternative energy options for our Commonwealth. I am committed to enacting property tax relief that significantly helps homeowners and to making the activities of the legislature more transparent and accountable to the public.
Over the year, my Gilbert and Hughestown offices handled hundreds of requests for information or assistance. While many legislators consider this work to be constituent service, I think of it as customer service, and I plan to exceed every expectation you have for your state representative. Although I may not be able to solve every problem, I am eager to listen to your concerns and take every appropriate action in an effort to help.
Beyond my legislative and customer service efforts on your behalf, I have been working to advance a number of projects in our region that will directly affect every resident of the 118th Legislative District. These include reclamation of mine-scarred lands, economic development, dam rehabilitation and working to find fair distribution of gaming funds.
Our region is blessed with many wonderful people, natural assets and opportunities for economic growth. I’m eager to do my part to meet some of our area’s needs and enhance our opportunities and quality of life.
In the coming months, I plan to continue an active schedule in both counties. I welcome your input by phone, letter, e-mail or with a personal visit. Please feel free to contact me if you wish to share an opinion or seek my assistance. It is my pleasure and honor to serve you in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.
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