Joint statement from State Senators A.J. Wilhelmi (D-43) and Linda Holmes (D-42)

Governor Pat Quinn recently met with Caterpillar Inc. CEO Doug Oberhelman after news broke last month that Mr. Oberhelman sent a letter to the Governor regarding his concern about four states soliciting the company for its relocation. Although this letter was intended to be a private correspondence, its public coverage became an opportunity for an important dialogue about the state's business climate.

As Senators that represent Caterpillar manufacturing facilities and a large number of Caterpillar employees, we believe that the meeting between Governor Quinn and Mr. Oberhelman is an important step forward as we discuss ways for our state to achieve economic progress. We hope to see continued talks with Caterpillar and other employers in the Will and Kane County region as the State examines its policies to support businesses.

In an effort to demonstrate our willingness to assist in future discussions about the retention and growth of jobs in Illinois, we assembled a bi-partisan coalition of state Senators to write a letter to Governor Quinn expressing our desire to help. You can read our letter at IllinoisSenateDemocrats.com.

We understand that employers consider a number of factors when deciding where to locate, such as the quality of the workforce, cultural amenities, schools and institutions of higher learning, healthcare facilities, the transportation network, and quality housing. Of course, they consider tax rates and the stability of the state's budget as well.

We believe Mr. Oberhelman expressed valuable insight in his communication with the Governor. After the two met on Tuesday, we learned of their renewed commitment to explore policies that will move this state forward in a way that supports our business community.

For decades, Caterpillar has been a good friend to Illinois. The company employs approximately 1,400 people at its Joliet plant, 2,000 people at its Aurora plant, and 23,000 people statewide. An untold number of businesses also depend on Caterpillar's presence.

It is critically important that we listen to this major U.S. manufacturer and Illinois employer as we shape policy towards growing our economy and creating jobs in Illinois. As your local lawmakers, we will continue to stay engaged in this conversation and offer solutions and strategies we believe work best for the businesses and residents of this region and our state.