Economic Development

By Ted Howze

I will lead the way in pushing for creative solutions to entice new industry to locate locally. One such solution would be charging higher developments fees on new housing and using the money to invest in the infrastructure needed to develop new business within the proposed West Side Industrial Specific Plan area.
The payoff would of course come in the collection of more sales tax revenue and better paying jobs locally. We are really talking about an up front investment to gain a huge return. Invest a little now to gain a brighter future or pay a lot more later to barely stay afloat.

Health Care Studies show that Stanislaus County has fewer per capita health care providers than most other counties in California. I propose we mount a major campaign to land the proposed UC Merced Medical Center in Turlock.

Food Processing The majority of the Central Valley's crop production is shipped out of the region for processing. Encouraging local processing facilities mean fresher and better quality products with less transportation costs.

Manufacturing Turlock enjoys a wealth of transportation options and access to various markets not only throughout California, but also the West and the Pacific Rim. Abundant labor, transportation and electricity make attracting more manufacturing effortless if we are willing to invest in the infrastructure.

Computer, Data Processing and Call Centers With a very large "commuter work force" in the Central Valley, employers need encouragement to relocate their businesses here to seize the advantages of low-cost buildings, strong telecommunications infrastructure, and willing employees who desire to eliminate commute times. Human capital is the primary resource as families and individuals seek affordable living styles with less commuting and hassle.