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Commission OKs Task Force To Create Jobs

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By MIKE SALINERO

msalinero@tampatrib.com

Published: January 8, 2009

TAMPA - A task force drawing on the expertise of Hillsborough County's business titans will be charged with developing job-creation strategies to help the area weather the recession, county commissioners said Wednesday.

Commissioners unanimously approved creating an economic stimulus task force with 10 to 12 members drawn from business, health and technology sectors. Commission Chairman Ken Hagan, who made the motion, said the county's economic development team needs "additional expertise" from the county's "best and brightest minds."

"I want to differentiate Hillsborough County from our competing counties and send a message that we're open for business," Hagan said.

The commission will ask Robert Abberger, senior managing director of Trammell Crow. Co., a development and property management company, to chair the task force. Hagan said other members may include representatives of economic development groups such as the Committee of 100 and the Technology Partnership. Economic development leaders from Tampa, Plant City and Temple Terrace also will be asked to join.

Commissioner Jim Norman suggested corporations and municipalities should contribute money toward the task force's economic development initiatives. The county could then develop a pot of money to add to stimulus money that Gov. Charlie Crist recently announced would be available from the state.

"Government can't do everything," Norman said. "If they're going to benefit, let's use their minds and let's use their checkbooks."

Hagan said task force members can be approved at the next commission meeting on Jan. 21.

Reporter Mike Salinero can be reached at (813) 259-8303.

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