A Common Vision for the Future
By Governor Dave Heineman
Dear Fellow Nebraskans:
This legislative session was a first in many respects. It marked the first time in 45 years a Lieutenant Governor became Governor of Nebraska by operation of state law. Now that the debate and voting, vetoes and overrides are through for another session, I am pleased that we were able to make significant progress towards a common vision for the future of Nebraska.
We can be proud of the education the children in this state receive. I am pleased to say that after several difficult years of budget shortfalls and decreased revenues, one of the major accomplishments of this session is an increased commitment to education in this state. Education is forever linked with the economic vitality of Nebraska.
That is why the Nebraska Advantage jobs-creation package is so important. It will help position our state to grow by addressing the economic needs of small and large businesses in small and large communities, as well as our agricultural producers. We had two choices in this state. We could watch our population mature, the costs for public services increase and our tax base dwindle, or we could take bold action and commit to growing our state. I am particularly pleased that we were able to accomplish the latter.
An important priority addressed during this session was public safety with the passage of LB 117. This law will curb the meth labs here at home and I want to again commend our Legislature for their willingness to work toward this goal.
We continue to work toward our goals of eliminating duplication, embracing technology, and fostering greater efficiency. This was a productive and successful session of firsts and while there are still challenges to address, I am confident we will meet them head-on in the months and years ahead.
At the start of this year's legislative session I pledged to work to earn the trust, respect and confidence of the people of this state, and promised that I would not shy away from difficult issues. As I look back over the past four and a half months, I believe we can all say that we met that challenge.
By extending their focus beyond the needs of today, our senators have worked very hard to anticipate the future needs of our state. We have worked together to create a solid foundation of accomplishments upon which to build in the next session and the years to come.
I have been asked what I will remember most about my first legislative session as Governor. Despite difference of opinion on the best course of action for our state, the 49 members of the Legislature and I achieved the professional working relationship that I believe the people of this state want from their leaders. Collaboration and the ability to put the interests of Nebraskans first, regardless of the divisive nature of an issue, is vital to moving this state forward.
Finally, I said at the outset that visiting communities, having direct contact with citizens and listening to the people was important to me. I sought to involve our entire state in a conversation about the future of Nebraska, and have appreciated every letter, card and e-mail I've received.
I want to thank each and every Nebraskan who has taken the time to share their thoughts and ideas, as well as all those who have gotten involved in the ongoing discussion about the future course of this great state.
http://gov.nol.org/columns/2005/0606.html