Contrary to Dan Walters' column ("It's time for a hard look at California tax dodges," Nov. 9) enterprise zones create jobs.
Proof is in the numbers: Since the designation of the Merced County Enterprise Zone in December 2006, 577 new jobs have been created.
These jobs are a lifeline for residents in Merced, many of whom face barriers to employment.
Merced County and its cities have typically struggled to attract new businesses and is an area that has been hard hit by the economic downturn.
In September of this year, Merced County had a 15.7 percent unemployment rate, which is down from 20.2 percent in March 2009.
Our state desperately needs concrete economic development tools in order to remain competitive
We cannot afford to be short-sighted; we should not cut back programs that will fundamentally help us grow our economy and recover from the recession.
Merced has seen first-hand the benefits of the enterprise zone designation.
Recent research has shown that enterprise zones increase employment, increase wage, salary and income levels, and decrease poverty rates. These are measurable benefits that are eagerly welcomed in our county.
The enterprise zone program represents an important investment in the future of Merced, and in the health of our state. We can no longer take for granted that businesses will locate in California and grow into a healthy and sustainable tax base.
We need to show that our cities and county are open for business, and the enterprise zone helps deliver that critical message.
Deidre F. Kelsey is chairwoman of the Merced County Board of Supervisors.
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