Posted
by Marsha Waldman
· March 23, 2015 7:07 PM
The Town of Carmel Democratic Committee
These are the current issues and evolving needs that we believe are crucial in our community, in our state, and in our nation.
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Elected officials are the servants of the people; they must conduct the people’s business honestly, openly, responsively, efficiently and ethically.
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Putnam County government should deliver services efficiently and make best use of all facilities throughout the county.
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We demand that our county’s eroding road and bridge infrastructure be repaired and upgraded to ensure safety.
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Public transportation should be available throughout the county to trains, shopping and medical, governmental, and recreational facilities.
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We are committed to responsible development that protects our environment.
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Putnam County government should facilitate the development of small businesses and should recruit companies or institutions that would offer full-time employment opportunities in the county.
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Institutional programs of higher learning should be established in Putnam County.
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We support and encourage the development of community-based programs to help adolescents transition to adulthood and the world of work, such as mentoring, apprenticeship and parent education training.
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We propose the creation of locally based community centers which offer healthy and stimulating group activities that provide for the emotional, social, and intellectual growth of our youth.
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The county should coordinate resources and programs that would prevent and treat substance abuse in our county.
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Seniors should be offered opportunities to socialize, exercise, and be involved in educational and community activities.
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Workers have the right to a safe work environment; to be protected from sexual and other forms of harassment; and to earn equal pay for equal work.
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We support the right of employees to form unions.
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We support a living wage for all local employees, and we encourage the adoption of living wage standards by all local businesses and institutions, regardless of size.
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Affordable child and senior care, based on income, should be available to all.
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We support the Equal Rights Amendment, affirmative action, and a woman’s right to choose.
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Crimes of sexual harassment or assault must be prosecuted in a timely manner.
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Putnam County should protect and preserve unique features, such as historic structures and natural and recreational resources that can contribute to tourism.
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We strongly encourage local government to promote the restoration and rehabilitation of abandoned and underutilized buildings.
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We encourage the construction of affordable housing units in walkable communities.
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Water and air quality standards should be based on the best scientific knowledge and be strictly enforced.
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We stand for significantly reducing, and eliminating as quickly as possible, our dependence on fossil and nuclear fuels.
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We are committed to renewable energy and the sustainable production of food and other basic necessities.
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Genetically modified food should be labeled.
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Gas or oil pipelines and train hauling of oil, natural gas, and other hazardous materials should not be permitted without prior independent health and safety impact assessments.
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We are committed to the banning of fracking.
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We believe that the terms of any proposed agreements and treaties should be openly discussed, especially those that may be detrimental to health, safety, jobs or the economy.
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We support a national universal health care system that emphasizes prevention and informs medical research.
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We support our veterans’ rights to medical, mental health, educational and vocational rehabilitative services.
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We are committed to preserving and improving Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid.
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We encourage cooperation and dialogue between law enforcement and community members.
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We support strong, responsible, and strictly enforced gun control laws.
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We believe that the composition of Putnam County law enforcement agencies should be diverse.
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We oppose the militarization of law enforcement agencies.
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A progressive tax system should apply to all forms of income.
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We call for the reversal of Citizens United.
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We promote the expansion of voting opportunities with a goal to achieve 100% participation.