Simply put, businesses aren’t hiring for the jobs they post online, experts say. They”™re looking for just the right person with just the right skills.
There”™s a risk associated with hiring an employee without the proper training. But when thousands of Westchester County residents are unemployed, a solution must be found.
Ahead of an expected bid for governor, County Executive Rob Astorino says he”™s taken the first steps to help unemployed workers get back to work.
Hire Westchester, launched Feb. 24, is a program that will reimburse employers up to half of their training costs when they hire unemployed workers. Funding will be available for employers through the Westchester Putnam One-Stop Employment Center. But only a limited amount of money is available ”“ just $100,000, which officials hope to stretch out over 75 hires.
“I think the upside for this is tremendous, or could be,” Astorino said at a press conference announcing the launch. “This is an opportunity to put a whole lot of people back to work.”
No government funding will be used to pay for the program. Instead, the Westchester County Industrial Development Agency will cover the cost through fees it collects from businesses applying for tax credits and other assistance.
Astorino, a Republican, said Hire Westchester is prime example of how government can help set the stage for economic development while protecting taxpayers”™ money. At the event, Astorino said he”™ll announce whether or not he is running for governor on Friday.
Any business located in Westchester County that hires a county resident is eligible for a Hire Westchester grant if the job pays between $10 and $25 an hour. The job may be seasonal, part time or full time.
Up to $20,000 in training costs could be reimbursed, though program officials say they intend to use the funding for more than five businesses. The reimbursements can be used to cover workers”™ wages, equipment, room rental or other costs associated with training.
Marsha Gordon, president of the Business Council of Westchester, praised the program, which she said has already helped at least three small businesses hire employees.
“This is so especially meaningful,” Gordon said. “This is about helping businesses and the desire of businesses to hire people. It gives them a little extra support.”
Employers interested in the program are encouraged to contact Bob Fois at onestop@westchestergov.com or (914) 995-4976.
