Governor Receives Report Measures of Growth Report

Governor Receives Report Measures of Growth Report

Governor John Baldacci today received the 2007 "Measures of Growth" report from the Maine Economic Growth Council. The 13th annual report provides state policy makers with planning information that helps them to chart a course toward increased job opportunities and improved quality of life for the people of Maine.

The Governor acknowledged that the measures were mixed this year. A number of indicators in the report show Maine is doing well in meeting the economic health and welfare needs of our citizens:

o The cost of doing business is going down;

o International exports are growing;

o Economic disparities such as poverty are being reduced;

o We're conserving more land and increasing sustainability of our valuable natural resources;

o We are reducing chronic disease; and

o Maine remains one of the best states in relation to the rate of health insurance.

"My Administration has established and is pursuing additional initiatives which will lead to strong economic growth for all Maine citizens," said Governor Baldacci. "While I'm pleased with the progress in these areas, there are a number of indicators that the report identifies as troublesome."

"We know our economy is not yet where we want it to be. My Administration is actively addressing these issues in an aggressive way," Governor Baldacci said.

"That's why my plan for real property tax relief and growing incomes for all Maine people is so important. We must reduce government spending - including consolidating school administrative units, modernizing MaineCare, and merging State departments. And we need to make the right investments for Maine's future. These include investments in cluster development, R&D, higher education and workforce development."

"With these steps, we will have the tools, resources and flexibility to meet the challenges we face, and to grow our economy not just now, but for generations to come. Maine people deserve our best efforts to bring job security and an improved quality of life to our state."

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