WASHINGTON (Jan. 15, 2009)—U.S. Senator Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md.) on Monday visited Charles County to meet with local economic development, business, and community leaders.
She first met with Indian Head command leaders for an update on latest developments at the base, including the first phase of the Energetics Research Lab for which she worked to include $12 million in the federal checkbook for fiscal year 2009.
“My mission is to create jobs, strengthen the economy and give our troops the tools they need. Indian Head, with its cutting-edge commands like the Naval Surface Warfare Center, accomplishes all three,” said Senator Mikulski, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “I’m proud to support Indian Head, its mission to keep troops safe with the latest technology, and the good, high-paying jobs that it brings to Charles County.”
Indian Head is the Navy’s premier facility for cutting-edge “energetics,” which includes research and development of sophisticated and long-range explosives and ordnance that protect troops by allowing them to neutralize threats from greater distances. The new Energetics Research Lab will replace older, insufficient work space. Consolidating activities in the new lab will help Indian Head retain expert scientists, significantly reduce travel costs, and keep and attract jobs in Charles County.
Senator Mikulski then met with Charles County Commissioners, the Indian Head Town Council, and local economic development and business leaders to discuss the economic recovery package that soon will be considered by the U.S. Senate.
“It is time to get our economy rolling again to help Maryland’s families and communities,” Mikulski said. “I’m fighting for an economic recovery bill that creates jobs through investments in water, sewer and transportation projects, investments schools, and investments in energy.”
The Senate is expected to consider the economic stimulus package in late January or early February.
Source: Sen. Mikulski's Office