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Task Force Issues Recommendations To Expand Philadelphia's Manufacturing Base

By Paul Kurtz

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A manufacturing Task Force has issued a list of detailed recommendations aimed at expanding Philadelphia's manufacturing base.

The days of belching smoke stacks are long gone. Philadelphia's manufacturing strengths today are in areas such as medical equipment, machinery and chemicals. To that end, the report recommends the city develop talent by tapping into community colleges and high schools that focus on science, technology, engineering and math. Tax breaks for businesses are also a must says City Councilman and task force co-chair Bobby Henon.

"Philadelphia unfairly penalizes some businesses and encourages others to relocate just outside the city limits," says Henon.

Mayor Michael Nutter calls the report a road map for the future.

"I've directed the Commerce Department to convene a working group that will meet monthly to create a road map for implementing the recommendations, coordinating the attraction of new manufacturing companies to Philadelphia and insuring coordination in pursuing federal and other funding opportunities while working with our present group of manufacturers," says Nutter.

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