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For Immediate Release: Monday, July 7, 2003
For More Information: Mary Lehecka Nelson, 773-5032
State and LAIC Offer Hiring Incentive
Pierre – Employers in the Madison area are being encouraged financially to hire workers previously employed by Rosco Mfg., according to John Calvin, secretary, Department of Tourism and State Development.
“We as a state are committed to helping these hardworking, dedicated folks find employment in the Madison area,” Calvin said. “With the Lake Area Improvement Corporation we have created a $150,000 incentive package that we’re offering to companies as an extra bonus to hire the displaced workers from Rosco. I say extra bonus because the primary benefit a company will enjoy is the increased productivity from having such quality workers on staff.”
The incentive package is a combination of a $100,000 Workforce Development grant offered by the Department of Tourism and State Development and $50,000 in matching funds from the LAIC.
“We are excited about partnering with the state in this effort to retain these top quality workers,” said Ed Fiegen, president, LAIC. “The cooperation we’ve received from Secretary Calvin and his staff has been exceptional. And, we’re hoping this latest effort will turn the tide in bringing jobs to these Madison citizens. That’s what it’s all about.”
Companies that hire displaced Rosco employees will be compensated $1,500 per full time employee that have a starting wage of at least $8.50 per hour. This package is retroactive from May 28, 2003, when Rosco announced it would be moving its Madison plant to Denver, North Carolina.
This incentive package is being offered in addition to the assistance being provided by the South Dakota Department of Labor. “The Dept. of Labor staff is to be commended for its hard work and determination to help these folks find other work,” Calvin said. “They were the first on the scene and they’re still there helping the Rosco employees find new employment opportunities.”
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