Support ECC's building plan

Right now jobs are scarce for constructions workers, plumbers and other skilled laborers. Though I'm lucky enough to have a job right now, many of my friends and co-workers are on the bench looking for work wherever they can find it.

That's why I'm supporting ECC's bond referendum April 7. Taking into consideration the economic conditions we now face, ECC is asking our permission to issue bonds to fund critical expansions of the college's job training facilities. That job training is core to protecting our local economy by providing a skilled work force. But that's a long-term benefit - and I know many of us are struggling to think in the long-term when are bills are due NOW.

Here's what will benefit us NOW: the college is using local business and labor for the expansions that will result in 4,000 local jobs. Those aren't jobs for workers in some far off state - that's 4,000 jobs for the co-workers and neighbors I see every day looking for work.

That's all the reason I need - I'm voting "yes" April 7.

Michael Hilleshiem

Licensed union plumber

Hampshire