City Adopts New Bedford Works Program

The City of New Bedford, including its economic development agencies, have devised a series of principles they want to see followed when major investors come to town.

Mayor Jon Mitchell says the "New Bedford Works" program has commitments for both the city and the investors.

"I want to make sure that the residents of this city are given the first cut at opportunities when folks invest here with us" said Mitchell. "Whether its a factory or a Downtown facility or some other business, we want people to benefit from the general upswing in the economy."

The principles of "New Bedford Works" include having new businesses pledge their best effort to hire qualified city residents for job openings.

The city has some responsibilities as well, including providing public sector services to new investors in a timely and professional manner.

Contributing to "New Bedford Works" was the New Bedford Economic Development Council, Workforce Investment Board and other community leaders.  The City Council has also endorsed the initiative.