Jasper community demands accountability from JEDCO board amid job growth concerns

The JEDCO meeting held on June 3, 2025, in Jasper, Texas, began with a critical examination of the organization’s impact on the local economy. A speaker raised concerns about the stagnation of economic growth in Jasper, highlighting that the poverty rate has remained at 28% since 1992. The speaker questioned whether the trust placed in JEDCO has been honored, noting that more businesses have left the town than have arrived, which they described as a failure of the agency's mission.

The speaker emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, urging board members to reflect on their roles and prioritize the community's interests over personal gain. They called for ethical leadership that truly serves the citizens of Jasper.

Following this discussion, the meeting moved on to the approval of minutes from the previous meeting. An amendment was proposed regarding the hiring of youth jobs, increasing the total from 50 to 80 positions as part of a grant agreement. The motion to amend the minutes was seconded, and the board opened the floor for discussion.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by Jasper's economic development efforts and the need for a renewed commitment to community-focused leadership. The board's next steps will involve addressing the proposed amendments and continuing to seek solutions for the town's economic issues.