Editor, Manteca Bulletin,

We must have governmental officials at all levels who not only say they want to improve the economy but also know how to encourage new investment, business retention, expansion, and new business development in our nation, states and cities. We, as consumers, have a role to play as well.

The Chief Executive of Coca-Cola recently said that it is easier to do business in China or Brazil than the U.S.  The CEO of Starbucks said last week that there is a “lack of leadership in Washington” to encourage and support long-term job growth in America. 

We need to see government do the following:

1. Quit giving tax breaks to companies to move jobs overseas. Stop exporting American jobs!

2. Make it easier for businesses to locate or expand in our states and cities even while we protect our environment.

3. Ensure that existing business assistance programs be responsible and non-political and help struggling existing small businesses,   not just new large businesses.

As consumers, we should be part of the solution too:

A. Seek out and support products made in the U.S. by American workers.

B. Demand of retailers large and small that they provide American-made products.

C. Demand of government at all levels that billions of dollars they spend annually go first for purchases of goods made in America and for services provided by companies that are located in the U.S.

We all can play a role in helping the American economy, our neighbors get jobs or remain employed and to create a bright future for our young people.

David M. Jinkens
Manteca
Oct. 5, 2011