State Rep. Kevin Brooks, R-Cleveland representing the 24th Legislative District, on Friday visited the History Branch of the Cleveland Bradley County Public Library bearing gifts.

It was an Archives Grant totaling about $1,000 from Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett.

“I am pleased to present this grant awarded to the Cleveland Historical Branch for their important work in preserving our past and preparing future generations of Cleveland and Bradley County families,” Brooks said.

He added, “This grant is a small investment in our community and should be seen as a responsible act of government. Unfortunately, in this year’s legislative session, the House majority was forced to spend a lot of time cutting red tape and closings avenues of government irresponsibility.”

During his Friday visit to the downtown History Branch, Brooks reflected on the accomplishments of the 107th session of the Tennessee General Assembly which completed its work a few weeks ago in near record time. He said he is already looking forward to next year’s legislative session.

Of the Legislature’s timely completion, Brooks said the early close — which came prior to Memorial Day — was the General Assembly’s earliest adjournment in 13 years. The prompt finish saved Tennessee taxpayers $500,000, he said.

“There is no reason for the General Assembly to be working any longer than is absolutely necessary,” Brooks stressed. “Delaying adjournment only costs Tennesseans and that is when government grows. The new House majority is committed to ensuring we come home in a timely manner.”

He also highlighted other successes of the session.

“We passed a balanced budget that did not contain a single tax increase and we eliminated $1.2 billion in spending,” Brooks noted. “As Assistant Majority Leader, I was privileged to assist ushering through reforms that Tennesseans have been seeking for years. For too long, bureaucrats stood idly by and maintained the status quo. That is a failure of leadership on their part and that is inexcusable.”

Brooks continued, “I'm proud to say we will continue working proactively to find ways to enhance our state and secure its future for future generations of Tennesseans.”

The Cleveland legislator said state lawmakers will continue to focus on the creation of jobs as a priority.

“Our number one concern this year was creating a positive environment for the private sector to produce jobs in Tennessee,” Brooks said. “That will continue to be our priority next year. Tennesseans can rest assured that the new House majority will not lose our focus or momentum when it comes to making Tennessee a better place to live, work and raise our families.”