Growth Opportunity in the Commonwealth

Last year, Virginia job creation performance was one of the worst in the nation, falling in the ranking of states to 48th.  In the last two years, our state has fallen from one of the best states in which to do business to twenty-six in one ranking.  The private sector is waking up to the reality that they need to have a greater role in the future of our Commonwealth.

This past week, leaders in the business community proposed a new effort to improve the economy of Virginia.  This effort is geared to creating jobs and encouraging greater investment in businesses that are starting or expanding in Virginia.

Traditionally, businesses have usually just looked out for their own business or those they are dependent upon for services, or supply, or those in their region.  They have usually stayed on the sidelines and not been interested in unrelated businesses or other parts of the state.  They have left it to the state, local economic development authorities, or local chambers of commerce to promote such activities.

The difference with the Growth Opportunity project is that business leaders are taking the lead rather than waiting for something to happen.  Too often, government lacks the ability to think in the same terms as business.  As well, government must follow protocols that slow down decision making.

In this effort, the Growth Opportunity group has enlisted the support of the universities and community colleges as well as the Governor and legislators.  The goal is to have all parties together with more private business guidance.  Much of what they have proposed is very similar to what we have been doing through the Tobacco Commission over the last several years.

Through the leadership of the Commission and former Governor McDonnell, our area has focused on working together regionally.  Instead of adjoining communities working against each other, we have counties working together; better understanding that people often work in adjoining counties.  Working together has enabled the region to market our assets not just nationally but internationally as well.

Likewise, the Tobacco Commission has focused on improving the skills of our folks to match those needed by today’s good paying jobs.  We have upgraded the training available throughout the region.

Growth Opportunity has committed to work with the government with the agreement that this effort will not come at a cost to the taxpayers of Virginia.  They have asked the Governor to better focus on the current incentives the state offers.  They have additionally asked that no region be left behind.

Time will tell how this proposal comes together, but clearly this comes at a time when Virginia’s economic development has slowed to a crawl.  The private sector is waking up to the reality that they need to have a greater role in the future of our Commonwealth.

On a personal note, my son Thomas was married on Saturday to a very lovely young woman that we are proud to have as part of our family.  In addition, my son David, who serves in the Navy stationed in California, was home for a week.  Soon he will begin a two-year tour of duty in Japan so we’re delighted to have him home for a few days.

We love to hear from you!  You can contact us at 434-374-5129, P.O. Box 332, Clarksville, VA  32927 or at Sen.Ruff@verizon.net.