Letters: Temp jobs not the answer
February 7, 2013 9:46PM
Updated: March 9, 2013 6:11AM
I would like to encourage discussion, in reference to an article published Jan. 27 in The Herald-News, entitled “Construction projects could transform older parts of Joliet.”
In it, many current development projects are outlined. These include a CN facility to be built at the Joliet railyard, looking to hire temp-agency workers; the opening of a Five Guys restaurant and the construction of new transportation infrastructure.
Though these types of projects — and the one-time construction jobs they provide — constitute positive steps toward overall redevelopment, I believe we need to focus more heavily on trying to attract long-term, high-paying jobs, if we want to increase our city’s revenue and foster lasting economic growth.
In his article, Mr. Okon wrote that many of these efforts are being funded by government, or non-profit organizations, which will not add to the city’s tax base. Whether through implementing a more comprehensive assistance program for businesses seeking to relocate to Joliet, or working more closely with the state to see how Joliet can mitigate the burden of local business expansion, we need to take a hard look at the tools available to us to improve conditions for families in our community.
I think we can all agree that creating temporary, low-wage jobs should form only a small part of our economic turnaround. To move forward, we must adopt a broader vision that makes Joliet the competitive location for investment that our residents deserve.
Jim McFarland
Joliet
Why are some exempt?
I believed everyone who lives in Illinois had the same laws. I recently found out that at least three towns are exempt from the emissions test, probably more. We all have to have a license plate, a drivers license and insurance. So, why are some people exempt from having to take the emissions test?
Those of us who have to take it must take it every year. I live in a small village, and we are not exempt.
If you believe everyone has a license or insurance, read the police blotter in the newspaper. The state and federal government make laws that are a joke, and the joke is on law-abiding citizens. We are not laughing.
Nancy Rada
Rockdale
