Not only did Yang Jian not understand Yang Huailin's words, but everyone present did not understand. Rural projects nowadays are truly profitable, and the capital turnover is fast. Projects completed in the same year are generally settled at over 95% within that year, with no significant capital pressure.
Yang Huailin glanced at Zheng Qian and the others. "Er Jian, in front of these leaders, let me say a few heartfelt words. Whether you can take them to heart is up to you."
"Uncle, please speak."
"Yes, rural projects are very profitable with high returns, but do you know who is undertaking these projects now? They are all thugs and hooligans who terrorize the countryside. To compete for projects, they not only fight amongst themselves but also threaten village cadres and the villagers. You must have heard some of these things, haven't you?"
"I've heard of it, and I've even had a conflict with one of them."
Yang Jian recalled Cao Wu. Wasn't he the one who contracted the road construction in his hometown using thug tactics?
Yang Huailin nodded. "Since you know, why do you still want to compete for these projects?"
"If others can do it, why can't my brother? As Chairman Mao said, as long as my brother secures the project, no one will dare to interfere, right?"
Liu Chao still didn't understand what Yang Huailin was trying to convey.
Yang Huailin said earnestly, "Er Jian, I watched you grow up. Although you have a stubborn temper, you are kind-hearted and not someone who bullies the weak. Even though you are now well-known in Chengguan and even the entire Xinhe area, I don't think you are a gangster. At least in the Xinqiao area, you are seen by the villagers as righteous, a hero who dares to fight against evil forces. No one equates you with hooligans like Xu Zheng."
Zheng Qian understood at this point. "Director Yang makes a good point. Although President Yang is famous, his reputation is all positive. If he were to participate in the competition for these projects, he would inevitably clash with local thugs, which would tarnish his image."
"It's not just about image. Firstly, it involves profit. No matter how famous or powerful you are, others won't easily give up. Their methods of dealing with you will be unpredictable. Can you guarantee that you'll be so lucky every time to evade or repel their violent tactics?
Secondly, the so-called high profits in rural projects are built on cutting corners and shoddy workmanship. The road our village built two years ago was supposed to be twenty centimeters thick according to the contract, but it was actually only twelve centimeters, and in some places, only eight to ten centimeters. After just two years, it's already broken and crumbling, and the villagers are cursing.
If you do the same, aren't you afraid of being pointed at and criticized? In rural areas, it's believed that building bridges and repairing roads is an act of accumulating virtue and good deeds. Your mother also believes in Buddha; would she allow you to do such unconscionable things behind her back?"
Yang Jian disagreed with Yang Huailin's statement. "Uncle, if I take on such a project, can't I just do it according to the contract?"
"If you do it according to the contract, you won't make money. In rural road construction now, the state provides a portion, and the village raises funds for another part. But in reality, the village has no money at all. The construction relies entirely on the state's allocation. That portion's budget is very strict, and the profit is quite small. If not managed well, not only will there be no profit, but there might even be a loss."
"Oh, now I understand."
"It's not just that. Thirdly, once you get involved in these projects, you'll be labeled as a village gangster and road bully. This label might not affect you in the short term and might even bring you substantial benefits. But I believe the state will not stand idly by. Just like in 1983, when the state launched a crackdown on evil forces, you would become a target of suppression."
As the village head and director of village public security, Yang Huailin's words hit the nail on the head. He was considering Yang Jian's future, warning him not to ruin his life for short-term gains.
These words also gained the approval of Zheng Qian and the others.
Zhao Xiaodong, the land management specialist who had been silent, said, "Director Yang is right. With President Yang's reputation and ability, and Yu Feng's support, developing through legitimate means would be much faster. There's no need to get involved in such violent matters. The situation in Xinqiao is so good now. With Yu Feng's support, setting up a prefabricated template factory could earn millions a year, create jobs, develop the economy, and earn a good reputation. It's much better than being a gangster."
Yang Jian also fell into deep thought. He had indeed considered getting involved in rural projects earlier. After his uncle's explanation, his words seemed to have some merit.
Seeing his silence, Yang Huailin continued, "Er Jian, I know you're gambling now to pay off your debts. I won't criticize you for this because gambling is currently in a gray area, and too many people are involved, from all walks of life. Even if the state cracks down, there won't be retroactive prosecution. However, village gangsters, road bullies, and evil forces will be investigated thoroughly.
But I also want to advise you to withdraw promptly once your debts are cleared. The state will eventually increase its control over this matter. As the country gradually becomes more prosperous, vices that erode society like gambling, pornography, and drugs will be forcefully suppressed and eradicated. Don't get caught in the crossfire."
It had to be said that Yang Huailin, as the village head, was quite insightful, and his words were very forward-looking.
"Uncle, I've noted what you said. Since rural projects require cutting corners to make money, I won't participate."
Yang Jian immediately made his promise.
Yang Huailin nodded. "That's the right way to think. You should broaden your horizons and strive to become a big boss. You are the first person from our Yang Li Village to buy a car, and I hope you will be the first to become rich. Use the money you earn to repair bridges and roads, do good deeds, lead the villagers to common prosperity, and bring glory to our Yang family."
"Heh heh, your expectations are a bit high. I dare not promise. You know I still have over a million in debt to repay, and the pressure is immense."
Yang Jian was not blinded by a few nice words.
"Pressure breeds motivation. I don't misjudge people. As long as you don't take the wrong path, you will surely achieve something."
"Yes, we also believe that President Yang is no ordinary person and will eventually leap over the dragon gate like a carp."
"Indeed, President Yang looks like someone destined for wealth."
After Yang Huailin finished speaking, Zheng Qian and the others began to flatter him. Yang Jian almost vomited from hearing it.
The banquet finally ended. After sending off Zheng Qian and the others, Yang Jian asked Yang Huailin and Liu Chao to wait in the hotel lobby while he went to Yu Feng's office.
The meal cost over two thousand yuan. Even if Yu Feng hadn't sought his advice, he should have gone to thank her in person.
Upon entering the office, he saw Yu Feng signing documents. The secretary poured Yang Jian a cup of tea.
"Sister Feng, thank you. You've spent money on me again today."
After Yu Feng finished her work, Yang Jian began to express his gratitude.
"Er Jian, if you continue to be so polite with me, I'll get angry. To be honest, I did have the intention of using you before, but now I truly consider you a brother. Let's not dwell on the past. Can we be sincere with each other from now on?"
Yu Feng had figured it out. As long as she maintained a good, equal relationship with Yang Jian, without any exploitation or scheming, he would not stand idly by if she truly needed help.