Yet much work remains. "This year, the legislature passed laws that increase energy efficiency, promote the production of energy from clean resources, and create Vermont jobs in the new green economy.  More work needs to be done in these areas to make heating more affordable for Vermonters and to address environmental impacts,” Head said.
 
As a member of the House Commerce Committee during her first term, Head worked on several key economic development initiatives.  She has been a member of the General, Housing, and Military Affairs Committee of the House since 2005, serving as chair during the 2007-2008 sessions.  Head successfully led several efforts to promote fairness in the workplace and secure support for our veterans.  Her housing accomplishments include passage of a major initiative that focuses housing development in growth areas, promotes manufactured housing, and provides for economic stimulus through housing financing.  Housing initiatives also addressed housing safety, including fire safety, lead safety and rental housing habitability. 

Significant financial pressures made passing next year’s budget extremely difficult.  These pressures are likely to persist.  Head is proud that significant budget cuts have not been made at the expense of families, children and elders. “The legislature refused to accept the administration’s proposal to reinstate co-payments for elders in the pharmacy programs and to double premiums for Vermonters on Medicaid.  We sustained our commitment to the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board, the primary vehicle for the creation of permanently affordable housing for low and moderate income Vermonters of all ages.  It is important to continue support for prevention programs that demonstrate effectiveness in several key areas: child abuse, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy, and community justice centers,” she explained.

Head’s work in public service spans 34 years. As a parent and lifelong learner, she sees the need to preserve the high quality of a South Burlington education. “This is a challenge now and will become an increasing challenge in the years to come given the city’s aging population and limited resources,” Head said. 

Twelve years as Executive Director of HomeShare Vermont gave her valuable, first-hand experience with the concerns of elders and people with disabilities. Head has also worked as a planner, fundraiser, and grant writer for non-profit organizations.  She currently serves as a Trustee of the South Burlington Community Library.  Her other volunteer work focuses on Hospice of the Champlain Valley, Dismas House, and Small Potatoes, an interfaith program that feeds hungry Vermonters.

Head earned a bachelor's degree from the University of New Hampshire and a master's degree in public administration from UVM.  With her husband, Tom Mercurio, and their two children, Paul, 19, and Maria, 15, she has lived on East Terrace for sixteen years.  Helen invites visitors to her website, www.helenhead.com.  Citizens are also encouraged to call her at 862-2267 or email her at helen.head@verizon.net.

Paid for by the Helen Head Campaign, Francis X. Murray, Treasurer 65 East Terrace, South Burlington, Vermont  05403