In the years that I’ve been in this area the foremost topic of conversation has been the need for economic development. Hard working people deserve a decent paycheck and an opportunity for advancement but in rural areas those opportunities are difficult to come by; sending people, mostly our youth, to places where those opportunities are more plentiful. The solution is likely not a one size fits all.
The roll of city administrators is to provide effective ordinances and incentives for businesses development, excellent customer service, responsiveness, excitement for what’s to come and knowledge of what is a good fit for a community. They seek the big employers, the job givers. But citizens play a key role as well. All successful towns, even large cities, require mom and pop industry to survive. Rarely do I travel with stopping at a local coffee shop, or a locally owned retailer or restaurant. There’s true gratification that comes from creating something with your own hands and of course there’s risks.
But there’s resources to help you along. An example of that is the upcoming business classes hosted by the Holbrook Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Northland Pioneer College offers a variety of business courses that can set the stage for making your dreams come true. I truly believe there’s a wave of good things coming for our region and each of us can be part of that in a positive way. We just need to make sure we take action so that we have the right tools for success.
