Orange County Democrats adopt nine-point platform

Goshen — At its Nov. 13 meeting, the Orange County Democratic Committee adopted a nine-plank platform identifying the ideals of the Orange County Democratic Party and the goals it will work toward to implement those ideals. “We, as a political party, feel that it is important to communicate what our ideals are, and how we will work to implement those ideals,” said Chairman Jonathan Jacobson. “Our platform provides a clear road map for the future of Orange County government and the conduct of our committee, candidates, and elected officials.” The planks include fiscal responsibility, managed growth/environment, transparency in government, and controlling special-interest groups. The platform was built around the issues identified after studying the Orange County government’s budget from 2001 to 2008, conducting surveys with a mix of registered voters and holding discussions with committee members and community leaders. The committee has identified nine ideals to serve as a foundation for actions undertaken by its members, candidates, and elected officials. “These ideals and subsequent actions are needed to counter the steady decline of our county under the current Republican leadership,” Jacobson said. • Fiscal responsibility and judicious use of taxpayer’s funds are essential to good government. • Properly managed growth is essential to the long-term outlook for the county’s quality of life. • The environment is critical to the quality of life of all citizens in Orange County. • The future of the county depends upon the economic health of all families. • Transparency in government and the rule of law are fundamental to a working democracy. • The democratic process requires controls on special-interest groups and businesses to limit their undue influence on the county government. • A responsible community is obligated to care for one another, particularly those who cannot care for themselves. • Protecting civil liberties and ensuring civil rights are primary concerns of a democracy. • A high-quality education is the right of every child in Orange County and is the foundation for the future of the county and the country.