Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) today lauded the Long Island Regional Economic Development Council’s economic development plan for securing $101.6 million in job-growth funding for Long Island. Recognized as a “Best Plan Awardee,” the council was comprised of business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community activists. The presentation of the five-year strategic plan for economic development funding should encourage residents, McDonough noted, as it seeks to make Long Island a thriving economic engine.

“Business owners and entrepreneurs across our community have both the ideas to make the private sector thrive and commitment to make Long Island an economic leader,” said McDonough. “Today’s top award to Long Island was a clear reminder that we have the right business and community leaders to make that happen. I am especially encouraged by the council’s focus on shoring up our infrastructure, retaining young workers, and enhancing economic opportunity. I am optimistic about what’s ahead.”

The awards are the result of months of planning, input, and consideration by the council. The process included dozens of public meetings, forums, and community workshops across Long Island. Thousands of New Yorkers contributed to the development of the strategic plans through these events.

“As the new legislative session approaches, we need to focus on the main issues that drive businesses out of New York to begin with. In 2012, Albany must work to streamline government agencies and cut burdensome red tape. I look forward to working with my colleagues on pro-growth legislation so we can get all Long Islanders back to work.”