New jobs look pretty good

Dear Editor:

The economic times we are facing aren't pretty. Already this fall, there have been hundreds of layoffs announced in Cherokee County, not to mention reduced work hours for many employees.

Now, Waste Management is proposing 3Cycle Environmental Management Center, which would bring more than 300 construction jobs with local companies benefitting from the initial millions of dollars invested by 3Cycle in construction. In addition, over 40 permanent positions would be created with excellent pay and benefits. The estimated $150 million investment in the County with millions of dollars that can be used as the County needs (who knows, maybe even head off a tax increase!!)

It will also provide significant property tax dollars that will benefit our schools. Despite these tremendous benefits, the opposition, in referring to the 3Cycle proposal said that landfills aren't "pretty." This ignores the fact that 3Cycle is much more than a landfill; it is a state-of-the-art facility that will provide economic and environmental benefits to both residents and businesses.

It will help local businesses and attract new business, and jobs, to Cherokee County. Our current economy and recent layoffs aren't "pretty" but the possibility of new jobs and an economic boon to Cherokee County looks pretty good. John Major Blacksburg, S.C.