Caldwell ID puts up a Web site to attract jobs-Companies use the Internet to find perfect spot

After five minutes of Web surfing, corporations and businesses across the nation can figure out whether they want to move to the Caldwell area.

Sandra Forester
The Idaho Statesman

Caldwell Economic Development Council introduced its new Web site Tuesday to more than 150 people at the Chamber of Commerce luncheon. http://www.caldwellonline.org/index.cfm

Its theme is “Caldwell —the most affordable link to the Northwest.”

The site contains information on the costs of doing business here, the availability of workers, a list of other businesses located nearby, details on commercial property and more.

Companies that help businesses choose locations nationwide usually start with 1,000 cities and use information gathered from the Web to narrow the field, said Jan de Weerd, a consultant and former staff member of the CEDC.

“The site gives them a lot of solid information about this area,” de Weerd said.

The Caldwell area has many features that would attract businesses, he said.

“We can compete with any region in cost of doing business,” de Weerd said.

And, he said, residents of the Treasure Valley also have a strong work ethic.

Council members say they´re trying to entice good-paying jobs in various industries, such as high technology, logistics and distribution, manufacturing and processing, and customer service centers.

“We´re not looking for minimum-wage jobs,” said Tracy Silver, chairman of CEDC. “We´re looking for $12 to $15 an hour. Those people really contribute to the economy.”

In marketing the area, the site shows how Caldwell fits into the larger Treasure Valley growth picture. Canyon County is feeling the pressure as growth moves west from Boise. New homes have gone up by the hundreds, and leaders say businesses and good-paying jobs are needed to create a balance.

“Having this type of information available on the Web will spur economic growth,” said Mike Gable, president of the Chamber of Commerce.

To offer story ideas or comments, contact Sandra Forester
[email protected] or 377-6447

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