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Washington, D.C., Nov 3 - Congressman J. Randy Forbes (VA-04) announced today that he has requested that representatives from the Economic Development Administration and the Departments of Treasury, Agriculture, and Labor participate in an Economic Development Summit hosted by Congressman Forbes for the localities of Franklin, Isle of Wight, and Southampton. The Summit would highlight specific ways the agencies could support the localities in the wake of the International Paper Mill closure.

“There are a number of federal resources available to communities who face plant closures and major job losses, but many of those resources are scattered among multiple federal agencies. An Economic Development Summit would provide a one-stop shop for localities to not only gather information on what resources are available to them, but also an opportunity to speak directly with representatives from the very agencies that are providing the resources. I am hopeful that these agencies will agree to join together to assist the communities impacted by the mill closure. Their guidance, in cooperation with the efforts of federal, state, and local leaders, will help these localities to renew their economies and better assist workers and families,” said Forbes.  

Each of the agencies offer resources and opportunities relevant to the communities impacted by the mill closure, including rural development assistance, employment and training assistance, tools to develop promising opportunities for long-term economic growth, and resources to generate long-term private sector jobs.

Additional information on the Economic Development Summit will be forthcoming as details develop. To view copies of the letters of request sent by Congressman Forbes to the various agencies, use the following links: 

• Economic Development Administration (Department of Commerce)
• Department of Treasury
• Department of Agriculture
• Department of Labor

For more information on resources that are available to individuals and families being impacted by the International Paper Mill closure, visit http://forbes.house.gov/ipresources/.