Shelburne News Question 3: Economy
Shelburne News Question 3: Lack of private sector job growth in our state is viewed by many as a critical condition, with growth being experienced in government and non-profit jobs which do not contribute to the tax base in a meaningful way. How would you addresss this concern of your constituents if elected?
As I travel through our community, I hear many stories: a craftsman with dwindling orders; an engineer facing downsizing; a self-employed woman with crushing healthcare costs. I also hear good news: jobs are growing in the technology sector and small start-up businesses.
Vermont’s economic future appears to be as an incubator for entrepreneurial ventures and green businesses attracted to our quality of life, agricultural heritage and environmental ethic. We are poised to be leaders in energy technology and are attractive to businesses with under 100 employees. While businesses create private sector jobs, the state must address those factors which make business viable:
1. Build a healthy infrastructure throughout the state. Reliable broadband, cell service and transportation are essential.
2. Provide entrepreneurial funding or seed money to get businesses off the ground. Some may fail, but the ones that survive provide jobs and pay taxes.
3. Support renewable energy. This responds to a problem and creates a range of jobs.
4. Develop a high quality, educated and trained workforce
5. Streamline the state permit process without harming the environment. People tell me they don’t mind following the rules – just make the process speedier and more predictable.
6. Reward creativity and problem solving. If a business can double the efficiency of a wind turbine, for example, make them tax exempt for the following 5 years.
7. Support affordable workforce housing. Businesses require it. It creates jobs.
8. Address basic health care for all and take it off the backs of business.
Non-profit businesses also benefit our community. Our colleges and non-profits like Shelburne Farms and Museum have been good citizens, attracting out-of-state dollars and providing thousands of jobs. Employees then contribute to the economy by purchasing goods, services and paying taxes.