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f <br /> 7 <br /> j <br /> 74 <br /> Both tourism and construction are subject to seasonal <br /> fluctuations, and the average per capita income on the Cape <br /> has long been below the state average. In recent months <br /> high mortgage rates have severely restricted construction <br /> activity throughout the Cape. To make matters worse, gas- <br /> oline shortages pose a potential threat to the tourist indus- <br /> try. The already poor employment picture may continue to <br /> { deteriorate in the coming months. <br /> The Commission has recommended the establishment of <br /> a Jobs Development Corporation and Finance Authority to <br /> provide alternative job opportunities for Cape residents, <br /> particularly for the Cape's young people. A Jobs Develop- <br /> ment Corporation could recruit compatible job producing <br /> business to the Cape. In the past, Commission support for <br /> such a project was based on the knowledge that new jobs <br /> must be created to replace those in construction as buildable <br /> land diminishes. Current economic indicators, however, <br /> demonstrate an urgent need for concerted long-term efforts <br /> to maintain and improve the Cape's economic base. <br /> To accommodate increased business activity, strategically <br /> located "employment districts" must be set aside, preferably <br />"? near controlled access highways to maintain traffic flow. <br /> ' The Commission has suggested eight potential locations for <br /> such "employment districts" to be developed and managed <br /> by public non-profit corporations under Chapter 121C of the <br /> .' Massachusetts General Laws. <br /> In addition, the Commission has encouraged the devel- <br /> opment of the Cape's resource potential in such areas as the <br /> shellfish industry. A Shellfish Advisory Committee was <br /> formed this year comprised of representatives of the Cape's <br /> shellfish wardens, shellfishermen, and experts on shellfish <br /> culture. The group will explore the feasibility of expanding <br /> the shellfish industry to provide increased job opportunities. <br /> The Commission staff continues to consult with the Over- <br /> all Economic Development Committees in Provincetown, <br /> Truro and Bourne in their efforts to improve problems of <br /> severe unemployment in these towns. <br /> Determining Water Quantity and Quality <br /> We know that economically the Cape has difficulty in <br /> adequately supporting its population, but the ability of the <br />