Economic Stimulus for Maine

Encourage Governor Baldacci to create an economic recovery plan for Maine, by continuing our investments in research and development and by creating a new "Communities for Maine's Future" fund to revitalize our villages, downtowns, and Main Streets.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: For an Economic Recovery, Invest in R&D and Our Communities

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

Two years ago, the GrowSmart-Brookings report laid out an "action plan" to grow Maine's economy and preserve our quality of life: Maine should streamline government, invest in research and development, and preserve and enhance our "quality places" - not only our rural landscapes, but also our vibrant towns and cities.

Your administration has been a strong leader in making these recommendations happen. This year, the report's advice is more timely than ever.

Maine needs to commit to investing in its future economic growth. We call on you to endorse an economic recovery package for Maine, through continued investments in research and development, and the creation of a new "Communities for Maine's Future" fund, which will revitalize our communities, help small Main Street businesses, and improve the "quality of place" of our towns and cities.

These investments will more than pay for themselves: they'll generate new jobs and help set our state's economy back on its feet. I hope that your administration will continue its leadership on these issues.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
January 15, 2009

Background Information

1. Research and development dollars in Maine have produced a payoff of $50 million in economic development for every $10 million invested.

2. Research and development funds will be used strictly to create jobs in the private sector, and will not create any new government programs.

3. Visiting tourists spend the most money in Maine's small towns, cities, and Main Streets. A "Communities for Maine's Future" fund will attract more tourists while also promoting new business growth in our downtowns and villages.

4. With rising gas prices and unstable housing markets, more and more Mainers are interested in living and working near the centers of our communities. The state's infrastructure investments need to reflect this new reality.

5. Providing good private sector jobs is the most important challenge facing our state if we want out children and grandchildren to be able to live and work in the state of Maine.