Immigrants make up almost 11% of our population, and are crucial to Pacific County’s rural economy. Immigrants help fill labor gaps, especially in the agriculture, shellfish growing and processing and hospitality industries. We value their many contributions to our communities and economy.

Our future success will include minority entrepreneurship, a trained workforce and diverse communities that attract local investment. Immigrants, regardless of legal status, grow the economy by producing more goods and services. This generates additional tax revenue.

Economically and ethically, targeted restrictions on immigration don’t make sense. I urge our local leaders to reject negative targeting of immigrants and to instead focus on solutions that maintain the dignity of all people in our community.

PCEDC believes the time is now to invest in our underserved communities, to provide an equal opportunity to achieve prosperity. PCEDC is committed to projects and policies that strengthen our economy, provide opportunity and encourage investment in Pacific County.

SUSAN YIRKU

Executive director, Pacific County Economic Development Council

Long Beach, Washington