Governor Rell Announces Dates, Times for Forums on Connecticut’s Economic Strategic Plan

            Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced the times, dates and locations for a series of regional forums to be held around the state, providing the public with an opportunity to ask questions and give input on Connecticut’s Economic Strategic Plan. The first of the meetings is set for Tuesday, December 8, at Norwalk Community College.

            The Economic Strategic Plan (ESP) is a detailed, statewide blueprint for keeping and growing jobs, making the state more business-friendly and investing in the infrastructure and technology needed to keep Connecticut competitive in the 21st Century.

            “I first proposed developing an Economic Strategic Plan during a time of relative calm and economic success,” Governor Rell said. “As the plan was being written, however, the financial climate in our state, our nation and around the world changed drastically. An economic downturn worse than any since the Great Depression has driven unemployment to all-time highs, forced many families from their homes and affected far more with deep insecurities about their jobs and their financial futures.

            “As we drafted this plan we held forums around the state to get the insights and comments of business leaders, entrepreneurs and residents,” the Governor said. “A draft of the plan has been available for review since September – and before the plan is finalized I want to hear once again from people, businesses and others concerned with the future of Connecticut. I have directed our Department of Economic and Community Development to hold a second round of public meetings on the recommendations in the plan, our priorities as we move forward and ideas for implementation.”

            The ESP plan reviews numerous factors that influence the state’s economic climate, from its transportation network, housing market and education system to its relative tax burden, energy costs and health care system. It points the way for economic prosperity by articulating a vision for the state’s near- and long-term future. There are more than 60 specific strategies and initiatives for the future, grouped in three general areas: Talent and Technology, Cultivating Competitiveness and Responsible Growth.

            The full text of the nearly 550-page plan is posted on the DECD Web site at www.ct.gov/ecd. The dates, times and locations for the meetings are: