As Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson delivered his 19th State of the County Address Thursday night, the Oakland County Democratic Commissioner’s Caucus outlined a policy agenda entitled, A New Way Forward: Refocusing on Our Kids and Our Local Economy.

“A New Way Forward is about reimagining our local economy, investing in our future, and reclaiming opportunity for middle class America,” said Commissioner Marcia Gershenson (D-Bloomfield Hills), Democratic Caucus Chair, in a press release. “We are putting forth concrete ideas that helps families and children move forward together and make our communities stronger.”

The agenda advocates for stronger support of early childhood programs, increasing outdoor recreational opportunities for youth and investing in programs to prevent teen pregnancies.

“You are more likely to hear celebrations of Bain Capital’s newest conquests coming from Brooks’ mouth before a commitment in addressing childhood poverty,” Commissioner Dave Woodward (D-Royal Oak), Democratic Caucus Vice Chair, in a press release. “Investment in early childhood opportunity and a refocus on Main Street economic policies are key to a strong, enduring, and resilient economy -- we’re committed to working with Brooks to realize this and hope to earn his support.”

A New Way Forward: Refocusing on Our Kids and Our Local Economy is attached to this article as a PDF.