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10/16/2008

Stephen P. Hanley-D, House District 59

Name: Stephen P. Hanley

Age: 64

Political party: Democrat

Residence: Gardiner

Employment: Retired from SAPPI Paper Co. in Skowhegan

Education: Gardiner Area High School graduate, four years United States Air Force, Central Maine Vocation Technical Institute, Maine Criminal Justice Academy reserve officer training

Political experience: Four years Gardiner City Council, three years Gardiner Waste Water Treatment Board

1. What can you, as a state legislator, do to help people struggling this year with the high cost of gas and oil?

As a state legislator I do have deep concerns regarding the coming winter and the cost of oil to heat one's home. I don't feel that we should depend totally on state government to solve this issue. All communities need to get together with various organizations to establish a fund to help those in need. I also think that communities must help insulate and winterize homes through service organizations and volunteers. We also must establish warming shelters in public buildings and in buildings of non-profit organizations. Everyone in Maine must face this challenge and support Maine's citizens in their time of need.

2. How would you handle the biggest issues facing the towns in your district?

I would involve the town and city officials in several workshops and seek input from those who have knowledge and expertise in any issue we need to resolve. If city and town citizens come together any issue can be tackled and corrected or resolved.

I would involve the town and city officials in several workshops and seek input from those who have knowledge and expertise in any issue we need to resolve. If city and town citizens come together any issue can be tackled and corrected or resolved.

3. Do you have any plans that would result in more jobs for Maine?

I believe Maine needs to be a more business-friendly state. As elected officials it is imperative to work in a more bi-partisan way. We must try to pass bills that help not hinder business, and not continue to pass bills that really do discourage growth.

4. What do you think of the beverage-tax repeal on the November ballot?

This bill was passed without benefit of a public hearing or public work session. I have been quite upset as this is not how we should conduct the people's business in Augusta. All Maine citizens expect and deserve more from their elected officials. I will vote in favor of a repeal of this tax. Maine citizens cannot afford any more taxes.

5. Would you support legislation to change the income tax or sales tax?

I support any change that will lower or stabilize the income tax and sales tax. In these challenging times we must not further burden the Maine citizen with increased taxes.

6. What's the biggest social issue facing the state in the next two years?

One social issue of concern is our aging population and how we can provide for them in the future. We must find solutions so that all Maine people can have affordable coverage. Another concern is the loss of our young people leaving Maine. We must find and attract jobs that will give them a living wage in our own state.

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