SwampFox

Joe Taylor Nominated to be SC Commerce Secretary

Submitted by: John Warner on Feb 09, 2006 at 12:42 am Tagged with: Miscellany Source:

Gov. Sanford: Commerce's Progress to Continue Under New Leader
GOVERNOR NAMES JOE TAYLOR TO LEAD TEAM

Columbia, S.C. - February 8, 2006 - Gov. Mark Sanford today praised the progress of the S.C. Department of Commerce reported in their recent investment report, saying he expected the agency to continue its success under newly-nominated Commerce Secretary Joe Taylor.

Over the past three years, Gov. Sanford's administration has recruited more new jobs and new investments to the state than the three governors who preceded him during a comparable three-year period. Total new jobs recruited to the state for 2003-2005 were 16,969 as compared to 13,238 (1999-2001), 16,388 jobs (1995-1997) and 10,775 jobs (1991-1993). New capital investment for the periods totaled $2.65 billion, $1.03 billion, $2.49 billion and $2.06 billion, respectively. Last year was the highest for Capital Investments since the agency started keeping track of the stats, and the jobs recruited by Commerce for 2005 pay on average 45% higher than the state's per capita income. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are roughly 95,000 more South Carolinians working than there were three years ago.

"When you look at the numbers, I can't say enough good things about the way Bob has lead Commerce over the past three years," Gov. Sanford said. "I believe having a businessman of Joe's caliber leading the Department from here on out will mean continued success in the coming years. Whether it's Joe's hands-on knowledge of building a business from the ground up or his relationships within the business community, he'll be a great leader for the Commerce team."

Taylor, 47, of Columbia, thanked Gov. Sanford for nominating him to succeed Secretary Faith.

"Gov. Sanford is absolutely right when he talks about improving soil conditions if we're going to compete in a global economy," Taylor said. "I've lived in South Carolina my entire life, I grew a family-owned business here, and I'm proud to assume a role where I can make a difference in raising income levels and creating opportunities for our state."

Secretary Faith, who will remain in his current role until Taylor is confirmed by the Senate, said he appreciated the opportunity to serve as Commerce Secretary for the past three years.

"It has been my honor to serve and contribute to the Governor's team and the people of this great state," Sec. Faith said. "I can't image anyone better than Joe to continue this important position. I'm going to work with the Governor and Joe going forward in whatever way I can to continue moving South Carolina's economy forward."

-#####-