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By Dave Umhoefer November 22, 2011

So far, 25 and counting

Under the heading of "continuing dialogue with job creators,” Scott Walker as a candidate promised he would open direct lines of communication between his administration and businesses.

Specifically, he promised to empower his lieutenant governor to "head regular small business roundtables in all corners of the state.”

The meetings, Walker said on his campaign website, "will provide valuable information on the state of Wisconsin"s economy, a better understanding of the needs of Wisconsin businesses in real time, and vital intelligence on businesses that are looking to relocate.”

Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch began the meetings in the first month of the administration.

Since then, she has hosted discussions with small businesses in 25 municipalities, according to her official website and chief of staff Jeanne Tarantino.

Among the hosts: the village of Suring in northeast Wisconsin; Milwaukee; Madison; La Crosse, Platteville, Tomah and Manitowoc. So the talks have spanned the state.

In Eau Claire, Kleefisch toured a business-incubator site and met privately with about 30 people who spoke while Kleefisch jotted notes about their businesses, said Bob McCoy, president of the area"s chamber of commerce. The media was invited in for the last portion of the meeting.

Several roundtable discussions have focused on women or minority-owned businesses, Tarantino said. Local chambers of commerce invite their members to attend and ask questions. Kleefisch moderates and information is exchanged, Tarantino said.

Walker followed through on this pledge. This is a Promise Kept.

Our Sources

Interview with Jeanne Tarantino, chief of staff, Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, Nov. 21, 2011

Scott Walker campaign website, jobs promises, accessed Nov. 22, 2011

Interview with Bob McCoy, president, Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce, Nov. 22, 2011

Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, official website, accessed Nov. 21, 2011

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