Whether as a clerk in a corner store or in a corner office of a large business, jobs are a key factor to the economic health of Orange County. We need jobs at all skill and salary levels for the citizens of our county. If passed, the monies raised by a quarter-cent sales tax increase would be split between economic-development initiatives and schools.
Monies directed to economic development would help pay for infrastructure, a small-business revolving-loan fund and several other programs to promote and support our efforts to attract new companies and retain those that are currently here. For me, it is a clear choice: Failure to provide funds will prevent development of infrastructure and support programs which will have a negative effect on our ability to attract companies and the jobs they bring. Without those potential jobs, many of our citizens may have to endure long commutes or relocate in order to support their families.
Another area that will benefit from the passage of this referendum is the education of our children. A well-educated work force, at all levels, is a major decision point when companies consider moving to a new community, and in this, Orange County ranks among the best. To ensure our schools stay among the best, we must maintain/upgrade our school facilities so that we can provide the best learning environments possible. Again, for me, it is simple: Without well-maintained schools, the quality of our children’s education will suffer and their ability to compete in the job market of the future will be compromised.
My support for this proposal is based on the belief that it will benefit our county through job growth. Therefore, I ask that you vote “FOR†on the quarter-cent sales-tax referendum on Nov. 8.
Earl McKee
Orange County Board of Commissioners