DAYTON (December 3, 2001) — Governor Bob Taft today reaffirmed his commitment to making Ohio a 21st Century State of Excellence in a keynote address delivered to the Dayton Rotary Club. Taft used the high-profile forum to speak out on education, the economy, energy and the environment. “I want to share with you my vision of Ohio as a 21st Century State of Excellence,”
Taft said. “It’s a vision that we will realize by working together through state and local partnerships focused on the 4 E’s: Education, Economy, Energy and the Environment. And it’s a vision that features Dayton as a leader in economic development – an engine of education, research and opportunity – powering our state toward worldwide prominence in technology and business development in the 21st Century.” Taft highlighted the increase of $1.4 billion in the current budget for primary and secondary education, and his $10 billion, 12-year plan to repair and renovate schools throughout Ohio. He also thanked the 1,750 volunteers for participating in MiamiValley Reads. Taft outlined a three-part strategy to stimulate the economy, which includes retaining and growing Ohio’s businesses and jobs; attracting new jobs to all parts of Ohio; and nurturing emerging sectors based on new technologies. He also mentioned the newly-created Ohio Aerospace and Defense Council working to promote the long-term viability of Ohio’s aerospace industry and defense installations.
In addition, Taft recognized the importance of having adequate and reliable supplies of energy and noted that 21 new electric generating plants have been approved for construction in the state. More than 200 Dayton-area city, county and business leaders attended the event. Taft commended Rotary Club members for their tremendous service to Dayton’s schools and the community.