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New Year’s goals include job creation, economic recovery

As 2009 draws to a close, I can’t help but reflect on the strides that the state Legislature has made to help Wisconsin dig itself out of the economic downturn and of the significant challenges that lay ahead of us in 2010. I knew when I took office that tackling these challenges would be difficult, but I was prepared to roll up my sleeves and do what I could to help the people in our area.

This year, Assembly Democrats worked to create tax credits and business incentives to foster a more hospitable business climate in Wisconsin. We worked to bring federal recovery money to the state, which has helped to create or retain more than 10,000 jobs. We laid the groundwork for statewide high-speed broadband access, allowing Wisconsin to remain competitive for high-tech jobs. We passed important legislation to put Wisconsin in line to receive millions of dollars through the national Race to the Top program for K-12 education.

Aside from implementing job-growing policies, the Legislature worked to shore up state spending, which resulted in passage of a state budget with an unprecedented $3.2 billion in spending cuts. The Legislature led by example by cutting $1.4 million from its operating budget. My Assembly colleagues and I agreed to share in the sacrifice by returning 3 percent of our salaries to the state.

The Legislature has taken many positive steps this year, and our work is beginning to be reflected in dropping unemployment rates and stronger investments in realty and businesses. It’s recognized by economists who rate Wisconsin as the most improved state for doing business. While we still have a long way to go, our efforts will continue to alleviate the struggles felt by so many Wisconsinites during this national economic crisis.

I recently held several listening sessions across the district to provide open forums for concerned citizens. One of my most important responsibilities is to remain available to residents in our area, and I was grateful for the opportunity to tour the district and speak with folks about whatever was on their minds.

During my “Coffee, Kim and Conversation” stops in Whitewater, Edgerton, Milton, Footville and Beloit Township, I heard from many of our neighbors about several issues—everything from school funding reform to drunken driving prevention. Not surprisingly, one common concern was job growth in our area.

While it’s important to reflect on our efforts over the past year, I will return my focus to what’s ahead as the new year arrives. You made it clear that my No. 1 priority must remain bringing family-supporting jobs to our area. That’s what I intend to be my focus.

With every new year come resolutions to lose weight, or to reconnect with old friends, or to finally clean the hall closet. Most people think of ways that they can improve their own lives. My resolution will be to help improve the lives of folks in our area by bringing good jobs back to our community.

Rep. Kim Hixson, D-Whitewater, represents Wisconsin’s 43rd Assembly District. He can be reached at P.O. Box 8952, Madison, WI 53708; phone (608) 266-9650; e-mail rep.Hixson@legis.Wisconsin.gov.