Shore Democrats raise Kaine

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< Lt. Gov. Tim Kaine on Saturday made a brief stop here during an eight-day tour to announce his candidacy in November's gubernatorial election, telling a room of supporters and onlookers that the state isn't doing enough to support educational and transportation initiatives.

Kaine, a Democrat, said his goals include cutting "homeowners' taxes" -- commonly known as real-estate taxes and used by localities to fund area needs. Kaine said he supports giving localities "tools" to cut those taxes, particularly for people on fixed incomes.

Meeting the financial obligations of education and transportation while encouraging economic development were other priorities, Kaine told an afternoon gathering at The Trawler Restaurant here.

He also touted his accomplishments as Richmond's mayor, saying the city built schools without raising taxes and won top national honors for its business-friendly climate.

"I want to keep the progress moving forward," said Kaine, who repeatedly referenced and credited Gov. Mark Warner's tenure. >

http://www.delmarvanow.com/easternshore/stories/20050323/2090911.html

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