Issue Position: Economy and Job Creation

Issue Position

Expanding the local economy, investing in innovation and clean energy, raising wages, supporting workers through job training programs, and helping small businesses grow will be top priorities for Jimmy. Our local economy relies on agriculture, tourism, and the strength of our educational institutions, so finding the right balance is critical. The Central Coast is among the most agriculturally diverse in the nation (both conventional and organic) and is a global leader poised to play a part in solving some of the toughest problems facing developing nations. With these opportunities come challenges, and we must manage regulation and development in a responsible way that allows businesses to grow while ensuring the preservation of the natural treasures that drive tourism, research, and education. Having attended Monterey Peninsula College, Jimmy understands the role of accessible higher education in preparing students for the workforce. He will work to make sure all our local colleges take a similar innovative approach to education that Cabrillo College uses when it takes county Workforce Investment Board and Employment Development Department information to drive its curriculum to make sure it is offering classes in skills that meet the demand for local businesses. Jimmy's goal is to strengthen the economic industries critical to jobs on the Central Coast -- agriculture, tourism, technology, research, and education.

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