Wisconsin's commerce secretary says state residents are going to have to stay the course during tough economic times.
Commerce Secretary Dick Leinenkugel told those attending the Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corporation 's 20th Annual Evening that Governor Jim Doyle's proposed budget gives the state the tools to emerge even stronger, but it's going to take some sacrifices. “Everybody's going to have share in the sacrifice,” said Leinenkugel. “I think we're going to be able to emerge from this economic downturn in an even stronger position.
Leinenkugal said the state needs more business investments and startups. “We need to encourage more business startups . . . and we need to provide that access to capitol,” by encouraging more “angel investment.”
With an unemployment rate of more than 9 percent last month Fond du Lac County residents looking for a little optimism got it from Leinenkugel. The commerce secretary toured Mercury Marine earlier in the day and learned about their continuing development of new outboard engine designs. “Thirty five outboard engines have been created by their team in the last four years,” he said. “That is a terrific example of a company that is customer focused, and is innovating to stay ahead of the competition.”