I agree with the letter-writer about the plan to help displaced Anniston Army Depot employees. But who was responsible for getting a federal grant of $600,000 to conduct a “comprehensive strategic plan,” and what does it entail to get displaced depot employees employment? Is it the Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce?
If so, shouldn’t the chamber already have a plan for any situation that will/could have an impact on local businesses? What does the chamber do outside of crisis management? Also, instead of using two pages on a weekly basis in The Star to give existing companies accolades, why not post current or potential job openings for the displaced depot workers? The chamber must have an insight on these opportunities for employment of those in need. Let others know it, also.
When I went to work at the depot in 1972, I didn’t have the luxury that you currently have at your disposal — computer technology. (Yes, we used ink pens and pencils, and it was a tedious job to apply for a job or position that we wanted in our career.)
I agree with the writer that $600,000 was granted to help those who have been or will be affected by the downsizing of the depot. But who were provided salaries to help displaced workers? Why did additional computers have to be purchased when existing computers had to have been available for this use? And why did the depot have to procure “space at the depot to work with folks losing their jobs”? As a former depot employee, I know there is a lot of free space to set up an operation to help those to be displaced.
For those displaced, I ask you to establish your resume and use the computer sites to send them to potential employers. You owe it to yourselves and us taxpayers.
Richard P. Olsen
Anniston
