Kolb's Legislative Tele-Town Hall gave him an opportunity to speak with - and hear from - constituents throughout Onondaga, Ontario, Seneca, Cortland and Cayuga counties, which comprise the 129th Assembly District. Callers were afforded opportunities to ask Kolb direct questions and answer surveys. At the Legislative Tele-Town Hall's peak, nearly 3,084 individuals took part in the call, which lasted approximately 60 minutes and was moderated by Canandaigua Government and Community Affairs Chairman Sam Casella.
Kolb heard directly from residents about a variety of topics including the economy, taxes, and initiatives pending before the state Legislature. Kolb also provided an overview of the 2009-10 State Budget and outlined his support for a "People's Agenda," designed to make New York a safer, better, more affordable place to live and work.
"Based on the feedback I received and the substantive dialog that took place, I thought our Legislative Tele-Town Hall was a success, as it provided people an opportunity to have their voices heard on issues impacting them, their families and the entire state," Kolb said.
"I believe a true hallmark of our democracy is elected officials regularly communicating with the people they have the honor of representing. Legislative Tele-Town Halls are a highly effective way for me to hear directly from the people I serve," Kolb stated.
"Assembly Minority Leader Kolb's Legislative Tele-Town Hall was in keeping with his continued commitment to representing our community and staying in close contact with the people. I was thrilled to act as moderator for the Assemblyman's Legislative Tele-Town Hall and hope he will conduct more of these interactive forums in the future," Casella stated.
"The input received during the call will help me shape the 'People's Agenda,' which includes real property tax relief, a stronger economy fueled by the creation of private sector jobs, safer communities, a quality education, and a health care system that puts patients first. This is the common sense, non-partisan agenda that our Assembly Minority Conference and I will fight for throughout the remainder of this Legislative Session and beyond," Kolb concluded.