Lt. Gov. Dan Forest opposes ferry tolls, supports economic development for coastal NC | Eastern North Carolina Now

News Release:

    Yesterday, we had a very enjoyable meeting with Lt. Governor Dan J. Forest in Raleigh. In reviewing the legislative session, one of the topics we discussed was our work in opposition to ferry tolls. The Lt. Governor immediately expressed his long standing opposition to tolling North Carolina’s highways. Dan observed ferries are like roads, and should not be tolled. Dan immediately comprehended ferries are a part of the State’s transportation system, just as are highways and bridges. Dan serves as a member of the State Board of Economic Development. He is working on a long term strategy to assist with the economic growth of North Carolina. He is attuned to every aspect of economic development, and very aware that coastal North Carolina is not enjoying the growth and high employment rates of Raleigh and Charlotte. During our conversation, we discovered that Dan and his Chief of Staff, Hal Weatherman, enjoy a close relationship with and appreciation of Rep. John Torbett, who has developed an expansive vision of economic development for North Carolina’s coast. Rep. John Torbett, together with Reps. Bob Steinburg, Paul Tine, and Michael Speciale, led the charge in the House to pass H.B. #1234, which would have removed all ferry tolls. H.B. #1234 passed the House with a vote of 106 to 2, but languished in the Senate Transportation Committee, as you may recall.

    The next time you see Lt. Governor Dan Forest, thank him for his support of our coastal fight against the ferry tax! We appreciate having a friend who presides over the NC Senate. Remember who breaks any tie vote in the NC Senate: it is the Lieutenant Governor, who serves as the President of the Senate. The Lt. Governor is in the middle of his first four year term as Lt. Governor, so he is not running for reelection this year. For more information about Dan’s schedule of events, visit www.danforest.com.

    As we enter into the heat of election season, remind your local NC Senate and House candidates that you expect and appreciate their support for NO FERRY TAX in the 2015 Legislature!

    If you have any questions about the ferry tax issue, please do not hesitate to contact Joe or Henri. Best regards, Joe & Henri McClees.

    Best regards, Henri and Joe McClees

    Joe McClees & Henri McClees
      McClees Consulting, Inc.

      Post Office Box 430
      Oriental, NC 28571

      Office (252) 249-1097
      Fax (252) 249-3275
      www.mccleesconsulting.com
      Joe McClees's mobile (252) 671-1585
      Henri's mobile (252) 671-1559