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It is time for Maine to re-invent itself, re-energize its ingenuity and live up to its natural and economic potential. Admittedly, we have one of the most revered destination locations any where in the continental US, perhaps the world. Our clean air, invigorating coast lines and lakes, pristine forests and scenic roads conjure up visions of what it is to experience a Maine vacation. But, our tourism industry can not take on the whole of Maine's economic vitality or tax revenue. Neither can personal income tax, property taxes or corporate taxes on Maine businesses.
It is time to change the way we do business in Maine. It is time to make it affordable and fun to be here; time to attract young new entrepreneurs; time to use technology, innovation and the brand that so many hold dear to our advantage. The answers are staring us in the face. We need to be disciplined enough to look and listen and take direction from our most successful business leaders, farmers, fishermen, wholesalers, retailers, tourism based businesses and technology driven industries.
Maine government seems to focus individually on one economic issue or another at a time, raised by one person or another, rather than looking at a "macro-economic" picture of where Maine needs to be to meet the challenges of the 21st century. The solution(s) are not simply one on one, but complex, integrated and many. In order to ensure the protection of our ideals, strengthening Maine's economy, keeping the tax burden competitive to other growing states and attracting new business with skilled labor and low environmental impact industries are a must. Maine's entrepreneurial spirit exists and that must be coupled with the political courage to really move Maine forward.
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