Okla. lawmaker proposes marketing effort to lure corps. from CA

Journal Record, The (Oklahoma City), Apr 17, 2001 by David Page

Senate President Pro Tempore Stratton Taylor, D-Claremore, is asking the State Department of Commerce to target power-starved California-based industries with a comprehensive marketing effort touting the state's inexpensive, plentiful energy supply and other attributes.

This is a great opportunity for us to showcase Oklahoma, Taylor said of the ongoing California electricity crisis. We have abundant and affordable electricity, water and land; a more productive work force; a lower cost of living; a prime location in the central U.S., and a better quality of life. For industries in California that are wondering whether or not they're going to have power from day to day, those should be some pretty strong selling points.

In a letter to commerce director Ron Bussert, Taylor has asked the agency to put forth a concerted effort in California over the next year as that state continues to deal with power shortages and rising electricity prices.

We have a great story to tell those California businesses that are seeking to expand or relocate, Taylor said. Not only is our electricity more reliable, it's significantly cheaper. A year ago, that might not have swayed many decision makers, but today it's a tremendous marketing tool.