Gov. Peter Shumlin is promising to work with municipal officials and business owners to bring new jobs to the Bennington area.
Shumlin spoke at a luncheon sponsored by the Bennington County Regional Commission.
He says long-term improvements in infrastructure, education and a renewed focus on agriculture will increase the number of jobs and lead to wage increases for employees who have suffered from stagnant earnings.
He says the state can help build on local efforts and help expand existing firms, including Plasan and Kaman Composites in Bennington.
The Bennington Banner reports the governor indicated several local companies have expressed interest in expanding in the area rather than in other parts of the country.