Paul Addresses Business Leaders in Bastrop PDF Print E-mail
FOR RELEASE: August 31, 2000

Paul Addresses Business Leaders in Bastrop Discusses His Efforts to Promote Economic Development in the 14th District

San Marcos, TX - Representative Ron Paul spoke to local business leaders in Bastrop Wednesday morning, outlining his efforts to increase employment in the mostly rural 14th congressional district of Texas. Paul noted that he has held several job fairs throughout the district that have been successful in matching employers with qualified applicants.
"The problem often is not that jobs are unavailable, but rather that employers and applicants have a difficult time locating each other," Paul stated. "The job fairs I have sponsored have been very successful in bridging this gap and bringing employers and employees together in a an efficient venue for hiring. This is especially critical in a largely rural district, where there are many smaller employers rather than a few large employers."
Paul has held several job fairs since taking office in 1997, including an event last summer in Luling in which attracted more than 300 local residents. The job fairs have averaged approximately 50 employers. Paul said his job fairs encourage employment and economic development in the district without looking to the government for a solution.
"The answer to further job creation is not more federal spending on government programs," said Paul. "No government program will help communities expand their job base in the long run. The key to ongoing economic development is fostering private sector investment in our communities. As a member of Congress, I feel an obligation to use my office in a way that will encourage long-term job growth. I plan to continue sponsoring job fairs in the 14th district to encourage employers to hire our hardworking citizens and to assist my constituents who are seeking a new job."