Andy Solomon, (202) 720-4623
Jim Newby, (202) 720-4581
GLICKMAN AND OGLALA SIOUX SIGN AGREEMENT TO IMPROVE LOCAL ECONOMY
PINE RIDGE, South Dakota, July 7, 1999 -- Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman today signed a proclamation affirming the Oglala Lakota Reservation as a USDA-designated Empowerment Zone that will receive $20 million over the next 10 years to assist with local economic development efforts.
"Our partnership demonstrates this Administration's determination to include every American community in the nation's unparalleled economic prosperity," said Glickman. "The President is committed to leaving no one and no community behind."
Despite the nation's roaring economy, this Reservation has an unemployment rate of about 73%. Over 60% of families here live below poverty line. President Clinton is visiting the area as part of his New Markets tour, an effort to focus public and private attention and investment on areas of the country that have not shared in the nation's prosperity.
The Reservation's Empowerment Zone is a grassroots effort, which targets funds to local projects designed to address local needs. The community's plan calls for creating 1000 jobs and providing affordable housing to 90% of residents. Total investment, including other public and private funds, is expected to top $100 million over the next ten years. The funds will be used for specific, local housing, infrastructure, and economic development projects.
Also today, the President announced $200 million in federal Water 2000 grants to help improve drinking water quality and dependability around the country. Of those funds, about $800,000 is earmarked for two projects on the Oglala Lakota Reservation.
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