Let’s see some action
From the prevailing darkness, grab hold of a wee bit of hope.
Carl Rosberg, the former nTelos executive and current chairman of Waynesboro’s Economic Development Authority, says his agency is stepping up to take a more assertive role in economic development, moving from what he calls the “rubber-stamp” days of old to making recommendations to the City Council about what ought to happen next.
This is a valuable step. The council needs to take the next, setting goals and priorities in development and demonstrating in the process recognition that development matters and the city has a part to play in making it happen.
That thum-thum-thum you’re hearing is us beating the same drum. We’ll stop when action happens.
By this time next year, the economy either will be headed for recovery or Depression. If it’s the former, and I’m hopeful it will be, a race will be on between cities like Waynesboro and other towns across the United States to reel in new and expanding business. The time to start running is now. Next year will be too late.
Now that the city has taken care of other pressing needs, like getting a reasonable noise ordinance (whew! glad we got that done), let’s get down to the real business of bringing in business.
Posted by R. Lee Wolverton at 09:29 AM. Filed under:
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Posted by ( Lorie Smith ) on March 08, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Bravo! In November 2008 I encouraged Council to use our planning session to develop a strategic plan with associated benchmarks. To no avail, we came out with no such product. I have often referred to this “window of opportunity” we have in Waynesboro. The Council needs a plan. It will hold us accountable and provide an opportunity to measure results.
Developers are interested in Waynesboro now. We know that northern Virginia is locating high tech/satellite offices in the Valley. We need to be aggressive, have a strong visitation program and align goals with the EDA. The River City 2020 group will provide invaluable information to further promote these efforts.
Let’s have a strong plan for recovery! Many thanks to those involved in these efforts!
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