Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Silverton Appeal Tribune: Gilliam hopes to encourage business

The Republican incumbent is seeking a third term in the Oregon House of Representatives.

"This is a very frustrating job and a very rewarding one, and I am willing to go one more time if the folks in District 18 want me to," Gilliam said.

The self-employed, part-time actor lives in Silverton, but also has properties in Seattle, Portland and California.

Among Gilliam's top priorities is balancing the budget.

"If our seniors or state troopers or kids are our first priority, whichever it may be, fund them first," Gilliam said. "And we haven't been doing that. We play political football and hold the greatest things until the end."

Gilliam, 57, said his focus will be on protecting funding for elementary schools, higher education, public safety and human services without raising taxes, but by prioritizing state spending.

As far as priorities statewide, Gilliam said job creation is first.

"People run around saying we've got to create jobs," he said, "and I want to make this clear, I do not believe that government creates any type of sustainable long-term jobs.

"What we can do is help create an environment where private businesses feel like they're not being over-taxed and that they can trust government. We don't have that right now. We have a horrible business climate."

Gilliam said he will also continue to oppose tax increases.

"In fact, I will work to repeal Measure 67," said Gilliam, referring to a measure that raised taxes on corporations. "I think that was a horrible mistake."

Of his accomplishments over the past couple of years, Gilliam listed his efforts toward creating renewable energy policies that are cost-effective and energy efficient.

Hydrogen energy is one example.

"I have had significant hydrogen traction in both sessions," he said.

Gilliam also said he has been a constant voice for the agriculture industry.

"I have every single agricultural endorsement there is to get, and I've worked very hard to listen and fight for agriculture," he said. "It's very important to me."

Gilliam said he is seeking another term because he wants to be part of a team that can "bring spending under control and do something to encourage business, rather than discourage it."

cpallone@salem.gannett.com



Read more: http://www.statesmanjournal.com/article/20101006/COMMUNITIES/10060371/1132/NEWS#ixzz11acon5eg

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