By Lewis Loflin
Update 2015: SI International rebranded or was acquired, then claimed 100 “new” jobs—yet these are the same positions recycled for over a decade.
After spending $10 million in incentives to attract $8-an-hour jobs to Clintwood, Virginia, former Governor, now Senator, Mark Warner secured a government contractor. With two prior call centers relocating overseas, Warner’s response in 2010 was to vote for legislation subsidizing companies that outsource jobs. The Washington Times (October 8, 2010) reported:
On September 28, Senate Republicans, joined by four Democrats, blocked tax legislation penalizing U.S. firms exporting jobs. Proponents argued the current system encourages offshoring, though its impact pales beside the EPA’s looming economic disruption starting January, absent Congressional action. The bill would have barred deductions for expenses tied to foreign expansion and raised taxes on firms closing U.S. operations to import goods from abroad. Republicans contended the tax hikes would harm international corporations employing American workers.
The Republican argument lacks merit. Which Democrats supported these outsourcing subsidies? Per the report: “Sens. Max Baucus (MT), Ben Nelson (NE), Jon Tester (MT), and Mark Warner (VA), plus Sen. Joe Lieberman (I-CT).” Yes, Virginia’s millionaire ex-governor, Mark Warner.
Richmond (2005) — Governor Mark R. Warner announced that SI International, an IT and network solutions firm, will invest $1 million to open a customer service center in Dickenson County. Occupying the former Travelocity building in Clintwood, it will create 100 jobs. SI International, under contract with the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, will support the Thrift Savings Plan for federal civilian and military retirees.
“It’s gratifying that SI International will utilize the state-of-the-art Travelocity facility and our skilled workforce,” said Governor Warner. “Collaboration among local, regional, and state agencies made this possible for Southwest Virginia and the Commonwealth.”
SI International, founded in 1998 and based in Reston, Virginia, employs over 3,800, serving primarily federal clients with mission-critical IT solutions. “The cooperation from state, regional, and local entities has been exceptional,” said William A. Smithson, Vice President of SI International.
The Virginia Tobacco Indemnification and Community Revitalization Commission funded research that led the Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority (VCEDA) to recruit SI International. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Tobacco Commission, VCEDA, and Dickenson County assisted, with the Virginia Department of Business Assistance providing training support via its Workforce Services Program.
“We welcome SI International to Clintwood,” said Paul Buchanan, Chairman of the Dickenson County Board of Supervisors. “These jobs should offer lasting stability, and we’re grateful they chose us.”
“SI International’s arrival is excellent news for Dickenson County and the region,” said Donald Baker, Mayor of Clintwood and VCEDA Chairman. “They can leverage our trained workforce, and we hope this marks the start of a enduring partnership.”
Taxpayers invested over $10 million in corporate welfare to cycle call centers through Clintwood. Jobs never exceeded 250, despite claims of over 1,100 “created.” SI International (since restructured) now holds the site with 130 jobs at $8-$9 hourly. The Pikeville call center remains closed for similar reasons.
Acknowledgment: Thanks to Grok, an AI by xAI, for formatting assistance. The analysis and perspective are my own. —Lewis Loflin
