SAGINAW COUNTY (WJRT) -
(02/15/13) - In 2012, At least 1,000 jobs were created or retained in Saginaw
County and the Great Lakes Bay Region.
ABC12 talked with business leaders who want to maintain that positive
economic trend.
Job growth and economic development are top priorities for these 400 business
and community leaders.
"We landed a new contract with an existing client where we're going to be
providing road side services for this client for a fortune 100 company," said
Chris Furlo, executive director of Morley Companies.
Last month, Morley Companies in Saginaw Township announced 250 new job
openings.
Morley is one of many businesses being recognized for creating employment
opportunities in Mid-Michigan.
"I think when you see the economic development that's going on, you see a lot
of the companies that have been here a long time, at Morley we're celebrating
our 150th anniversary this year. We're seeing a dramatic growth," he said.
"These types of jobs are based jobs that other areas in the community thrive
on. Service and retail jobs, so they spin off and help support the other sectors
of the economy," said Steve Jonas, with Saginaw Future.
Nexteer Automotive is also playing a role in the economic up tick.
In December, the company announced an investment of more than $70 million
that will bring 325 jobs to the region.
"We are fortunate to bring new businesses with American key customers, and
you do that, we are going to keep expanding our footprint here in Saginaw
Michigan," said Laurent Bresson, president and chief operating officer with
Nexteer Automotive.
Nexteer also announced formation of its 'Steering the Future' fund. $10,000
in grants will benefit charitable programs and initiatives around the community.
