Providence, RI - In the latest example of Governor Lincoln D. Chafee's continued and sustained efforts to address Rhode Island's municipal challenges and to provide property tax relief to Rhode Islanders, the Governor today hosted Rhode Island business leaders for a Municipal Strategy Session at the State House.
"I have often stated that it is not the role of government to create jobs. What government can do is create a climate that is conducive to job creation and economic growth – a climate of certainty. Today's meeting participants are the ones who will be bringing the new jobs to Rhode Island, and they understand better than anyone that fiscal stability is a key factor in giving businesses the confidence to expand. From the largest companies to one- or two-person operations, all businesses want the assurance that they are operating in a fiscally stable state and community," Governor Chafee said.
"In slashing aid to municipalities, the state has eroded our foundation for growth. Cities and towns are pivotal to economic development. We must shore up our foundation and make Rhode Island a good place to invest in job creation. Business leaders will be an integral part of turning local economies around. I look forward to working with them to help cities and towns better serve all Rhode Islanders," Governor Chafee continued.
"I want to thank the many participants who took the time to be here today. After our productive discussion, I am confident that we share a commitment to bringing fiscal stability to Rhode Island and its municipalities. I expect a continued dialogue with the business community regarding municipal challenges, as well as the many other issues facing our state," Governor Chafee concluded.
"I want to thank Governor Chafee for the leadership he has demonstrated in convening this strategy session. The Governor recognizes, as we do, that business has a significant role to play in the revitalization of Rhode Island communities. There is potential here for a great partnership between the business community, the state, and cities and towns as they pursue financial health and economic growth," said Colin P. Kane, Principal of Peregrine Group LLC, a Rumford-based real estate development, investment, and advisory services firm.
Governor Chafee talked about the need to confront municipal fiscal issues head-on throughout his gubernatorial campaign, and since taking office has consistently stressed the need to help the state's cities and towns better serve Rhode Islanders.
In addition to the Governor's Municipal Strategy Sessions for municipal executives, employee groups, and business leaders, he will host in the coming weeks an electronic town hall with Rhode Island taxpayers and retirees to further discuss ways for the Chafee Administration to work with cities and towns to better serve Rhode Islanders.