Issue Position: Economic Development

Issue Position

High paying job opportunities in rural areas of our state have been decimated in the past decades due to global competition, outsourcing, and a global economy that is much more intertwined today than ever in American history. My plan for economic development is three fold:

Facilitate more aggressive cooperation in our rural district between private-sector industries and our public school systems to supply specific skills and/or technical expertise to students, better preparing them for careers or college after high school. For example, Bridgestone and Yorozu executives should collaborate closely with Warren County teachers to insure students are being prepared for careers after high school if college isn't an option for them.
Government leaders at the local and state levels should work in tandem to foster economic development in their communities. State leaders in this administration have given less attention to our small towns and rural areas in the realm of economic development and career placement. For example, McMinnville's employment office was closed last year by the Haslam administration and now Warren county residents must drive to Tullahoma for access to a state career center to aid them with employment opportunities.
Support policies that offer incentives to small businesses and encourage small-business growth. Small businesses are the backbones of our small town economies. Hometown businesses employ local citizens and invest in our local economies, schools and communities. State and local government officials should encourage local entrepreneurs and businessmen who invest in, and work daily for, the betterment of our communities and small towns.

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