| When I speak to business leaders, I hear a common theme: the number one priority for their business success is access to a well trained workforce. They recognize that attracting and retaining the best and the brightest is essential if they are to remain competitive in this global economy. Our natural assets — the coastline, open space and recreational amenities — coupled with world-class educational resources, has made this one of the most desirable parts of southern California.Preservation of our oceans and other natural resources is not just an aesthetic issue, it’s a bottom line economic issue in this district.
One in ten Americans today cannot find work and families across our nation are losing their jobs, their homes, and their access to health care. Here in Orange County, the current jobless rate is at 9.1%, though that number is actually larger since thousands have stopped looking for employment. The national economic downturn, coupled with the disastrous financial condition of our state has hit our local economy hard. As a “jobs rich” district, we have lost more jobs on average. As one of the most active growth areas during the “boom,” and the center of the subprime lending industry, we have been on the front lines of the housing implosion.
Our country is paying the price for an economy supported by debt and driven by greed. The powerful interests who followed the “profits and bonuses at any cost” model have left pain and misery in their wake. Those in Washington who lack the courage to challenge these practices are protecting special interests and throwing their constituents to the wolves.
It will take hard work and vision to rebuild our economy in a way that works for everyone. We must turn this challenge into an opportunity. Business innovators and entrepreneurs must be incentivized to create jobs and expand markets. Capital must be available for those companies that build their success on a responsible business model. Accountability must be at the heart of the 21st century business model if we are to grow an economy that builds its strength in a sustainable way. |
