COMMUNITY LEADERS MEET TO DISCUSS HELPING JOB SEEKERS

Mary-Janet May 27, 2015

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A number of leaders in the Brenham community attended a meeting at the Cannery Kitchen on Wednesday morning to discuss what was next in their effort to help displaced workers recently affected by the layoffs at Blue Bell, Valmont, MIC and StanPac.

Wesley Brinkmeyer, Chairman of the Washington County Chamber, wanted to emphasize a “Buy Local” commitment.

Randy Wells, of Faith Mission, emphasized the Neighbors Helping Neighbors campaign, wanting everyone in the community to be “part of the solution” to helping the workers

Wells wants to see the displaced stay in Washington County instead of going off to places like Houston, which would increase the likelihood that the workers would not return to the county.

Page Michel, of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, encourages persons who need help to call Faith Mission or the Chamber of Commerce, and they will be directed to the appropriate agencies for help.

Michel also mentioned that she expects that the economy will pick up, and that there are not only jobs available, but there will be job training through the Hodde Technical Education Center available.

The following leaders and taxing entities were in attendance to put their heads together on what could be do in the community to help the displaced.

Brenham Mayor Milton Tate

Brenham City Manager Terry Roberts

Brenham Community Development Corporation Chairman Charles Moser

Washington County Judge John Brieden

Washington County Treasurer Peggy Kramer

Washington County Tax Appraiser Willy Dilworth

Blinn College VP Government & Public Affairs Cathy Boeker

Blinn College Sr VP Finance & Admin Services Kelli Shomaker

Blinn College Board of Trustees President David Sommer

Brenham ISD Superintendent Dr. Walter Jackson

Brenham ISD Board of Trustees President Natalie Lange