In a speech to members of the California Black Chamber of Commerce, Assemblymember Curren Price, a candidate for the state Senate, called for a stronger contracting and procurement partnership between the state of California and small, minority-owned businesses to create new jobs and to stimulate the state’s flagging economy.
Mr. Price, a Democrat, is running against two opponents. The special election to fill the vacant seat in 26th Senate District — previously held by new County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas — will be held on Tuesday, March 24. Mr. Ridley-Thomas endorsed the Assemblyman on the day the Supervisor was sworn in, Dec. 1.
In his speech, Mr. Price encouraged Chamber members “to prepare for the imminent opportunities that are anticipated from the economic stimulus plan.
“Current opportunities could include contracts stemming from the Neighborhood Stabilization Program.
“This is a federal provision that released $3.9 billion in Community Development Block Grant Funds to state and local governments to purchase abandoned and foreclosed homes and residential properties.”
“This funding is significant. It allows localities to renovate and to rehabilitate those homes with the hope of eliminating blight and reinvigorating and stabilizing the affected neighborhoods.
“These dollars represent contracting opportunities at the local level.”
He Promises a Helping Hand
Mr. Price also praised small business leaders. He told the assembled business owners that the state will help them get through these tough economic times.
“Opportunities can be created during times of tremendous hardship and struggle because it forces you to be creative and innovative,” Mr. Price said.
“Small minority businesses and entrepreneurs possess two characteristics in abundance.
“Daily, you demonstrate in your businesses your ability to implement practical solutions to complicated problems. You are dreamers. You are risk takers and innovators. You do something remarkable every morning: you get up, and you keep going.
Mr. Price said creating new jobs is one his top priorities in the Legislature.
“I intend to give a big push to green industry jobs,” he said. “I will be convening a town hall to discuss emerging industries and green job creation. I will talk about how policymakers can assist in promoting the expansion of green industry.”
“I am also introducing legislation to formally authorize and fund a Green Jobs Collaborative that will assist emerging industries and prepare our workforce for skilled green jobs with sustainable wages.
“I am introducing a small business legislative package that will increase contracting opportunities for small businesses and mandate the 25 percent small business participation goals.
“Your businesses are a key driver of job growth and economic development.
“They will play a leading role in the economic recovery in the state and the nation. I remain committed to ensuring that small minority businesses have a fair share of state contracting dollars. I encourage you to become fully engaged in the political process.”
See http://www.currenpricejr.com.
