Legislator orientation, and December office hours
2022-12-15
Dear friend,
I am offering the following "office hours" in December:
Tuesday, Dec. 20th, 8–9 a.m., Halifax Town Office meeting room, West Halifax.
Tuesday, Dec. 20th, 9:30–10:30 a.m., 1A Coffee Roasters, Wilmington. (Note this is a half-hour earlier than first posted.)
Wednesday, Dec. 21st, 5–6 p.m., Whitingham Public Library, Jacksonville.
Please bring any questions, comments, or feedback for your Windham-6 Rep-elect!
***
The last couple weeks have been busy "behind the scenes." I took part in a weeklong orientation for new Representatives and Senators. With over 60 new legislators out of a total of 180, this class is the largest in anyone's memory. Here's the group photo in the House chamber.
I was impressed by the thoughtfulness and commitment of all the new and returning legislators I met. A number are Selectboard members like myself. All have deep ties to their towns and unique experiences motivating them to serve. I've also been getting to know the legislative staff, and staff from across State government.
I've also had the chance to meet and get to know other elected officials, including Gov. Phil Scott. We had a great talk.
True to his reputation, the governor was nice enough to join me for this selfie.
At every opportunity, I'm sharing what it's like for the 4,200 of us in Windham-6. Our challenges are both similar to those faced by other Vermonters, and often also unique. Speaking with a strong voice for our three small towns is why I'm there.
The most common question I get is what committee I will serve on. Committee assignments are made by House leadership and will be announced at the start of the session in January. I've shared a few ideas about what I can be most useful, but I will dig in and serve wherever I'm planted.
Similarly, I've been getting to know what topics are likely to come before the legislature this session. Some are big topics like childcare and housing that are have been bandied about in the news for months. Some are more specific ideas.
If you have any feedback on what you're seeing and hearing, or have topics you'd like me to be aware of, please be in touch!
P.S. The State House is very accessible to all Vermonters. School groups and tours have started again post-COVID. If you would like to visit and I can help arrange a tour or make any connection, please be in touch!