As a Representative from Weber County, I have worked closely with the officials of the cities and county as well as the Chamber of Commerce to be sure that the needs of our area are presented to the Legislature. Our mayors, commissioners, and chamber of commerce give us great input into the economic needs of our communities. I sit on the Higher Education Appropriations Committee which gives me an opportunity to represent Weber State University.

The former Defense Depot Ogden, as a major business property, is providing a great benefit to our area. The rail system into DDO along with excellent warehousing facilities provides just the right combination for many businesses.

Overall, our state unemployment rate is low, but in Weber County our unemployment rate is one of highest in the state. Also a great deal of our growth both statewide and local has been in the service industry which is basically low-paying jobs. We have had an insurgence of retail stores, but most retail stores pay minimum, or slightly above minimum wages and hire many part time workers. A full time employee receiving $5.50 per hour will have a monthly wage of approximately $960. This is not a livable wage.

Utah’s legislature must continue to recognize our great potential and encourage the development of business in this Weber County.