Put development agency in city: mayor
January 31, 2009
The Hamilton Spectator
http://www.thespec.com/News/Business/article/505047
Mayor Fred Eisenberger is pushing for the federal government to headquarter a just-announced economic development agency in Hamilton.
This week's federal budget included more than $1 billion over five years for a new Southern Ontario Development Agency to help the region cope with the loss of close to 200,000 manufacturing jobs since 2005.
"Our city is in the middle of a transition as our economy diversifies from primarily steel-based industries to the new economy," Eisenberger said. "This unique experience makes Hamilton the ideal location for the new agency."
Eisenberger says Hamilton's advanced manufacturing sector and its educational institutions make the city the best choice.
Critics argue development agencies have not been effective and have been used for political manipulation.