Marshall talks healthcare, economy with Chamber

After talking about the crisis of the healthcare industry in Queens, Borough President Helen Marshall struck a more optimistic tune when speaking about the economic future of the borough.
“It is said that construction is the engine that drives the economy, that’s why I’m committed to ensuring the continuation of our major capital projects,” Marshall said at a Queens Chamber of Commerce breakfast on February 10. “We are moving forward on Willets Point, Hunters Point South and dozens of smaller projects across the borough that will create jobs for residents and revenue for businesses.”
The Chamber hosts the breakfast with Marshall and the entire borough board made up of representatives from the 14 community boards in Queens each year to give its members an opportunity to hear directly what is going on in Queens.
“Because small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and the current economic conditions are so dire, I am redoubling our efforts to work with the Queens Chamber and other partners to help Queens businesses prepare for, bid on and successfully complete government-funded projects,” Marshall said.
During the beginning of the breakfast, Chamber Executive Vice President Jack Friedman urged those in attendance not to participate in the recession, and reminded businesses that there were many opportunities out there to enhance their company.
“There are a lot of great things happening in the borough and at the Chamber,” Friedman said.
Marshall also spoke about the vast array of cultural centers that Queens offers including the Queens Museum of Art, Queens Theatre in the Park and Queens Botanical Garden. She said that many of these institutions are excellent venues for holding events and encouraged businesses to utilize the great spaces.
“Vital to the success of these efforts is the Queens Chamber of Commerce,” Marshall said. “Now more than ever, we count on its members to Keep it in Queens.”
However, Marshall also spoke about the likely closure of St. John’s Queens and Mary Immaculate hospitals and the 2,500 jobs that the borough would likely lose if the two hospitals close. In addition, she said that surrounding businesses would also suffer losses if the hospitals close and other hospitals in the borough that are already operating at or above capacity would have to take on an even greater load.
“If this sounds like the beginning of a horror movie, order some more popcorn,” Marshall said.