Rybak touts success of jobs policy

Jim Gehrz, Dml - Star Tribune

Mayor R.T. Rybak

Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak today underscored the payoffs of the city's patient investment in job training and creation in contrast with quick-fix federal and state policies.

By STEVE BRANDT, Star Tribune

Last update: March 5, 2008 - 8:45 PM

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Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak underscored the payoffs of the city's patient investment in job training and creation in contrast with quick-fix federal and state policies.

Rybak said in his seventh State of the City speech at the new MacPhail Center that a $7 million city investment over the past four years has helped to virtually close the city's unemployment gap with the metro area. He said the city has placed 14,000 people in unsubsidized jobs and another 3,300 city-subsidized jobs.

"I disagree with the economic philosophy used too often in Washington and St. Paul," Rybak said. "You don't build a recession-resistant economy that creates lasting prosperity with a one-time rebate check or tax cuts for only the very wealthy..."

"Minneapolis has shown that you build common ground for a recession-resistant economy by investing in people and investing in an environment where opportunity and innovation is fostered."

The remarks bring to mind the choice that Rybak told supporters on New Year's Eve that he's making this year -- whether he'll seek a third term, run for governor or leave public office.

Steve Brandt • 612-673-4438

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