ELECTION 1992: STATE TREASURER; GARY MELTON VS. BOB HOLDEN

I believe the State Treasurer's office offers an excellent opportunity to show what can be accomplished by an individual committed to creating new jobs, restoring people's confidence in public service and addressing Missouri's education and housing needs. My "Missouri First Plan" outlines a number of programs designed specifically for these purposes.

Investing at home

First, Missouri dollars must work for jobs in this state, while also working for the taxpayers. I will invest state funds in financial institutions demonstrating a clear commitment to development in their communities. While encouraging local job creation in this manner, I will also make sure that Missouri tax dollars receive the highest return possible.

The second component of my program concerns regaining public trust in state government. As State Treasurer, I will direct an open, honest and accessible Treasurer's office, one in which citizens have the opportunity to report superfluous spending through a Government Waste Hotline, and one in which the voters' voices are heard. For too long, the state government has been closed to the voting public.

Campaign finance reform

I also pledge to continue my crusade for campaign finance reform, which I began in 1983 while serving in the legislature. In Jefferson City, I led the fight for campaign finance reform, calling for limits to be placed on both contributions and overall spending. In the treasurer's office, I will continue to push for and support legislation that works toward these goals.

The final component of my "Missouri First" plan addresses Missouri's education and housing needs. Concerning the former, I have developed an "Education Tomorrow" program, which will help our children learn financial responsibility and better prepare them for college. In addition, I have proposed bringing together educators and financial leaders from around the state to develop new methods of funding for schools. Improving Missouri's educational system must be a top priority for any new administration. I am committed to making it mine.

The housing needs of this state deserve equal attention. As state treasurer, I will sit on the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC). In this role, I will work to insure that all Missourians have equal an fair access to quality, affordable housing.

Experience and dedication

The next financial leader of Missouri needs to lead with experience and dedication; my record of public service reflects such experience and dedication. I have been an assistant to the state treasurer, and for three terms I served as State Representative from Springfield (1983-1989), during which time I chaired the House General Administration Appropriations Committee and served on the Budget Committee.

I am the only candidate for state treasurer who has worked with a $10 billion budget; I am the only candidate who has worked in the Treasurer's office; and, I am the only candidate with the vision and persistence to move Missouri into the twenty-first century.