Chrysler Shuts the Doors Early

Today comes the news of an earlier than expected closing of the Chrysler plant in Newark.

Chrysler LLC said Thursday it will close its Newark auto assembly plant at the end of the year and lay off more than 1,100 workers a year earlier than planned.

This closing strikes one more blow to the economy here in Delaware.

Last week, General Motors said it would lay off 400 workers at its Boxwood Road assembly plant outside Newport and eliminate one of the plant's two remaining shifts on Dec. 8.

Sales of new cars are slumping in the tight credit market and overall economic conditions we face in the nation today. The loss of jobs at the two automakers is not unexpected, but does highlight the need in Delaware for more diversity of jobs.

Governor Minner offers state help in finding new jobs for the displaced auto workers. That help will no doubt be very welcome. In addition Delaware needs a real vision for the future in job development. For many years small and medium businesses have been the backbone of job creation in America. We need to look more into fostering and supporting those businesses in every possible way if Delaware is to remain a first class state in the future.

Government may be helpful in a variety of ways to develop new and better jobs. Primary to all is a first class educational system. We must educate and train our children if new and better jobs are to come to the state. A fine educational system attracts new residents and makes for an overall better climate for businesses looking to move to a new location.

Government must look to our infrastructure to see that roads, bridges, and buildings are kept in good repair. We need to improve and expand the public transit system. Light rail systems should be kept on the table. Rapid transit to Philadelphia's airport and down the state from north to south would be an economic boon to the region and the state. Much may be accomplished over time but the beginnings must be now.

Government should foster programs to aid the establishment and growth of small businesses. America has a long tradition of entrepreneurship. People willing to take the chance and establish a new business need to be supported and guided at times. The government could establish programs under which both capital and knowledge may be supplied to those new business owners.

Many times small business owners (especially those with 5 or fewer employees) face real challenges in the credit industry. Government should encourage conditions for loans to small businesses. This micro-lending supports both the businesses and creates a new industry within itself.

Much must be done for the long term. We are far behind the game in the nation as the loss of manufacturing jobs escalates over time. Delaware suffers as much as any other state. We must play to our strengths. The state has a skilled labor force in our unions. We have fine educational institutions to foster research and development with the proper encouragement. An agricultural base is in place and ready to be put to full use or even changed in direction. We have tourist attractions to bring visitors and expand tourism as an industry.

The next administration faces a number of economic challenges, but all may be overcome with the proper leadership and direction. As we approach Election Day it behooves each and every one of us to be sure we understand what our candidates propose. We must see to the election of the very best leaders to insure our future.

Peace.