West Palm Beach mayor aims to bring 1,000 jobs to city by end of year
Mayor Keith James announced his “West Palm 1,000” jobs initiative, which aims to bring in more career opportunities by the end of 2021.
Just like the initiative reads, the goal is to have 1,000 jobs by Dec. 31 as the city tries to bring in economic growth and support for private-sector job creation following a year and a half of pandemic hardships.
According to CareerSource, Palm Beach County currently has a 4.8% unemployment rate.
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“There’s not a lot of hiring signs, but you see a lot of people,” said Alonzor Gamble Wilson Jr., a West Palm Beach resident.
“It’ll be good. We need the work. A lot of people are struggling,” said Krystal Gonzalez, a resident.
Local businesses seeking employees and people searching for work are at the forefront of the mayor's initiative, with a focus on financial job placement.
“I know a lot of people who will benefit,” added Gamble Jr.
“I was personally impacted, was laid off and am looking for a job right now,” said Aaron Clemens.
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Under the plan, Mayor Keith James will work hand in hand with economic and business development programs and incentives the city already has.
He’ll also be talking to employers impacted by the nationwide labor shortage to help them find ways to jump back.
“It’s very exciting, plus there’s a lot of construction, I see a lot of new businesses opening up on Clematis and Rosemary Square,” said Clemens.
In a statement, Mayor Keith James wrote in part, “We are seeing significant momentum as businesses realize the incredible opportunities West Palm Beach has to offer, we are currently on track to achieve this ambitious goal.”
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