Voter Guide: Steve Simonian Profile (2nd District)
Monday, November 05, 2012
Candidate Profile: Steve Simonian (Republican - Auburn)
Birth Date: October 20, 1962
Education: Doherty High School, Wentworth institute of Technology
Bio: Steve Simonian was born and educated in Worcester, graduating from Doherty High School. In 1986, he continued a long-rooted family tradition of military service, following in his father's footsteps by joining the United States Navy. During his military career, he attended Naval Nuclear Power School, and served on board the USS Bainbridge and the USS Enterprise, receiving an honorable discharge after six years of service. After serving the country, Steve attended Wentworth Institute of Technology and studied Architectural Engineering.
Mr. Simonian is very active in the local community, currently serving as a member of the Auburn Board of Selectman. Previously, he has served as a Town Meeting Member as well as a coach in a number of youth sports leagues.
As a Selectman, Steve has been an independent voice advocating for fiscally responsible budget practices, fairness and equity in taxation, and accountability in all aspects of government. He demonstrates a commitment to developing a competitive and attractive business environment by bringing a balanced approach in taxation and government expenditures.
Throughout my professional career opportunities, I have gained a varied perspective across many key industries including technology, pharmaceutical, and telecommunications. My keen business experience and diversified background will bring a considerable knowledge and a fresh perspective to Beacon Hill. I am committed to working across party lines with passion, commitment, and fervor to bring more efficient and higher quality services to the people of Massachusetts. I currently reside in Auburn with my wife, Jody-Lynn and my three daughters.
On the Issues
State Services:
Creating jobs in State Service would require getting rid of waste and inefficiency across several disciplines in the State House and Executive Agencies. There is no question that cost-cutting measures will have a tremendous effect on local budgets by allowing more money to be retained in the district. This allows for the three most important areas of our local governments to thrive: Public Safety, Education and Economic Development.
Taxes:
Taxes are all over the map in Massachusetts. We have Gas Taxes, Sin Taxes, Property Taxes, Land Taxes, Excise Taxes, and Tolls. At what point does the electorate say enough is enough? Businesses are getting crushed by taxes, and consumers are getting swallowed up by the burden of more tolls and taxes. Why do we need all of this to support a State Government that is loaded with patronage? This does not make sense and we need to get people elected whose sole focus is on protecting the bottom line and the families and small businesses throughout Central Mass.
Healthcare:
The unbalanced majority on Beacon Hill decided that mandated healthcare was the way to go. Although this has evolved over time, only recently have leaders even entertained the notions of cost containment and creating more inexpensive access for all. If the mandate is to stay, then we need a way to provide more options that are more affordable in order to protect all businesses and families.
Education:
Education is the cornerstone of the economy in Massachusetts. There is no question that the State needs to support more efficient and effective educational initiatives, including performance based contracts, more access to the highest levels of technology, and more partnerships with private sector business, colleges and universities.
Energy & the Environment:
Massachusetts needs to focus on the most cost-effective and efficient delivery services of utilities, while also keeping an eye on a cleaner delivery system. At this point, any elimination of any delivery technology must be outweighed by the cost and payback period of any newer system.
Illegal Immigration:
I support legal immigration. As a product of a family that has come through Ellis Island, I think we need to do a better job of controlling the borders. I am not against immigration, but I am against people staying in this country longer than they are allowed and then collecting subsidies that are paid for by legal taxpayers. The system needs real overhaul, not just a flash in the pan which is what has been one to date.
Quick Hitters
What is the single most important issue you want to tackle in 2013?
We need to look at every way to lower unemployment and put people back to work.
Who is your favorite member of the opposite party?
John F. Kennedy
In one paragraph, why should voters support Steve Simonian?
As a private citizen and one who has worked in the private sector and military my whole life, I have a unique perspective of what government has done for me. I see a system loaded with waste and feel I my perspective will be different. I see a balance of power on Beacon Hill that completely ignores a large sector of the population. I want to bring them into the fold. Our opportunity to start fresh with good quality leaders happens on Tuesday, and I ask for your vote.
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