As your representative in the state Assembly, my top priority has always been to stand up for the issues that matter most to families here in Central New York. That’s why I fought for a state budget that will help strengthen our local economy and invest in our schools – but there’s still more that can be done. Together, we can make our communities stronger. I encourage you to get involved in the legislative process and make your voice heard.

Each year, I’ve held town hall meetings before negotiating our state budget to get a sense of what’s most important to local families and to help achieve meaningful results for Central New York. These meetings have become a well-attended annual tradition, and for good reason. Citizen involvement is one of the basic principles of democracy, and public participation in the legislative process gives our community a powerful voice as well as the opportunity to shape government.

As we continue with this year’s legislative session, I know how important it is to get your continued feedback on the issues affecting you and your family. That’s why I’ll be holding three additional town hall meetings in the coming weeks. I’ll answer your questions about the state budget and be sure to take your ideas with me to Albany so that, moving forward, I can better advocate for you. I encourage you and your family to attend one of these events, held at the following locations:

• Minoa Village Hall, 240 N. Main St. – Wed., May 13 – 6:30-8 p.m.
• Tully Free Library, 12 State St. – Wed., May 20 – 6:30-8 p.m.
• Cicero Senior Citizen Center, 5924 Lathrop Dr. – Thurs., May 21 – 6:30-8 p.m.

I’ll always fight to do what’s right for Central New York, including supporting tax relief for our hardworking families and bringing good-paying jobs to our area, and I’m eager to hear more of what you have to say about the issues that are important to you. If you aren’t able to attend and have a concern about a community issue, please know that my door is always open. If you have any questions about my upcoming meetings or would like more information, please feel free to contact me at StirpeA@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling my office at 452-1115.