Press Release

Eastman Kodak Company Meets with Senator Gillibrand in Washington

Mar 25, 2009

Washington, DC – New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand met today with Antonio Perez, CEO of Kodak in Washington, DC. They discussed Kodak’s advancements and economic developing efforts in Rochester.

“Kodak is an institution in Rochester and will be a critical part of our economic recovery,” said Senator Gillibrand. “My number one priority in the Senate is to create jobs and help turn our economy around. I look forward to working with Kodak to restore confidence in the economy of Rochester and all of New York.”

Mr. Perez spoke of Kodak’s transformation from primarily a film company to a more diverse digital company, including Kodak’s commercial printing business, inkjet printers, digital cameras, frames, and additional products. Senator Gillibrand pledged to help Kodak receive the tools and resources necessary to remain a steady, thriving company in the 21st century.

Senator Gillibrand looks forward to working with Mr. Perez on Kodak’s efforts to find new companies to lease or buy their vacant buildings and land. This land keeps Rochester competitive by already having access to water, electric, rail, and other needed infrastructure. Senator Gillibrand committed to assisting Kodak in locating new companies to help grow in their existing space.

In the future, Senator Gillibrand will work with Kodak to help secure federal dollars through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for alternative energy projects on this land and in these existing facilities.  Senator Gillibrand is a proud supporter of President Obama’s economic recovery plan, which will save or create more than 215,000 jobs in New York State alone. The economic recovery plan will lay the foundation for future economic growth by building new transportation infrastructure, improving health care technology, investing in development of renewable energy and supporting investments in public education.