During a recent special meeting of the Worth County Board of Supervisors, a strong plea was made to protect local economic development in construction. Dylan Grandlidge, a representative from the Laborers International Union of North America, Local 177, addressed the board, emphasizing the potential negative impact of proposed ordinances on construction projects in the area.

Grandlidge, who spoke on behalf of the union's 3,000 members, highlighted that many of these skilled workers reside in or near Worth County. He warned that imposing restrictions could jeopardize job opportunities for local residents, stating, "If this passes, there is a very, very good chance that there is going to be hundreds of Iowa natives... responsible for constructing these projects."

The union, which prides itself on having the highest trained and safest workers, urged the board to reconsider any measures that would hinder economic growth and construction initiatives. The discussion underscored the importance of supporting local labor and ensuring that community members benefit from upcoming projects.

As the board deliberates on the proposed ordinances, the union's message resonates: protecting local jobs and fostering economic development is crucial for the community's future.