To the editor:
Thousands of domestic energy production jobs could be cut if Congress does not extend the Production Tax Credit which helps the private sector develop domestic energy and most importantly, create jobs.
Right here in the Cassopolis area, K&M Machine is a part of this success, producing parts — and jobs — for the wind industry. These are just the sorts of businesses and jobs we should be encouraging in southwest Michigan. Why then doesn’t Rep. Fred Upton support an extension of this thriving industry’s key federal incentive, the Production Tax Credit?
Michigan has become a manufacturing powerhouse for the wind energy industry. Supporting over 4,000 jobs across our state, the wind industry has at least 31 facilities manufacturing components in Michigan alone, with another six facilities announced. Many of the skills that Michigan workers already possess transfer easily to wind energy manufacturing, providing thousands of new jobs and spurring billions in investment.
I would urge Rep. Upton to support his constituents who want more manufacturing jobs in Michigan. Support Michigan workers. Support the PTC.

Meg Mullendore-Cluckey
Cassopolis Village Manager