Dear Editor,
As I pen this letter directed to the citizens of Rutland Town, the Legislature is still in session, working well past our normal adjournment date. For many weeks now, we have been working remotely from our homes. Due to the pandemic, “Zoom” and conference calls are a reality for all of your elected officials. I find myself working many long days right from my home as we navigate these challenging times.
I have received numerous calls from town residents in regard to their unemployment benefits. I feel your pain and am hopeful that with my help you were able to finally receive your payments. No one could have imaged the magnitude of this pandemic, including the temporary closure of businesses.
For the past eight years, I have served on the Natural Resources, Fish and Wildlife committee. Most of our work in this committee deals with “clean water” bills. I believe that I have brought a balance to this committee and a different point of view on many occasions.
After much soul searching, I have decided to run for re-election!
It has been one of my life’s greatest joys to serve the community of Rutland Town in Montpelier. This campaign will look much different with celebrations and county fairs canceled. My heart breaks for the thousands of Vermonters, (some from right here in Rutland Town) that have lost their jobs due to Covid-19. It’s by no fault of their own that now they face an uncertain financial future. I want to be a part of the solution in Montpelier this coming Legislative session. I want to offer my experience at the highest level to help fix our financial crisis this state faces.
Over the past four terms, I have always considered the financial impact to the taxpayer before I cast my vote. My pledge to you has always been not to raise your taxes. I once again am asking for your support, and vote, in the upcoming election. I have represented Rutland Town with honor and dignity. I am ready to continue to work for all of you, once again in January.
There is an old saying about not changing horses mid-stream. Staying with experience and expertise is the wise decision as we come out of this pandemic.
My thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost friends and relatives to Covid-19. I am keeping all of you in my prayers.
Thomas Terenzini, Rutland Town state representative
