press conference at 9:30 -- -- local hiring program for Metro

NEWS

Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas

L.A. County Board of Supervisors, 2nd District

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 25, 2009 Contact: James Bolden 213.200.5314

SUPERVISOR MARK RIDLEY-THOMAS INTRODUCES METRO

MOTION TO ESTABLISH LOCAL HIRING PROGRAM

Ridley-Thomas seeks assurance that local communities benefit from Federal Economic

Stimulus Funding to promote economic development in Los Angeles County

WHO: Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas and fellow Metro Board Members

WHAT: In February, Supervisor Ridley-Thomas urged the hiring of at-risk

youth with Federal Stimulus funding by directing the County's Chief

Executive Office to develop actions to ensure that the use of Federal

Economic Stimulus Package funds create jobs, job training and

other similar public benefits for at risk-youth.

In his capacity as a Metro Board Member, he will introduce a motion

on March 26 establishing a policy of local hiring on large

construction projects that are executed with Federal Economic

Stimulus funding.

Metro will receive funding to execute a number of "shovel ready"

projects throughout its service area. The intent of the funding is to

promote economic development in Los Angeles County and to

provide employment opportunities for local residents.

WHEN: Thursday, March 26, 2009, 9:30 AM

WHERE: Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)

One Gateway Plaza

3rd Floor Board Room