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September 13, 2011
Oakland, ME – Democratic local-area state representatives said layoffs at the T-Mobile Call Center in Oakland will hurt the local economy.
“Workers have reported that T-Mobile is laying off more employees despite tax breaks they received to create jobs in Oakland,” said State Rep. Henry Beck, D-Waterville. Beck represents parts of Waterville and Oakland. “T-Mobile received tax breaks to invest in job creation in our local communities. If these incentives aren't working, then we must work together to find better alternatives.”
Citizens of Oakland and local workers gathered today outside the T-Mobile Call Center to urge the company to create jobs or give taxpayer money back to the community.
T-Mobile was the recipient of a state “Pine Tree Zone” tax credit, which offers eligible businesses the chance to greatly reduce or virtually eliminate state taxes for up to ten years. The goal of the program is to create jobs and expand new or existing business. T-Mobile received the Pine Tree Zone credit in 2005 when it relocated its call center to Oakland.
“Our local economy can’t afford to lose more jobs right now,” said Rep. Thomas Longstaff, D-Waterville. “These workers are our neighbors and friends; they spend money at our local shops and restaurants, and help keep our communities afloat.”
Contact:
Jodi Quintero [Beck, Longstaff], 287-1488, c. 841-6279