We are optimistic that 2017 is going to be another great year of opportunities for business in this region.
Based on the robust dialogue we are having with our members, operations both large and small and across industry sector lines, we know commerce in this four-county region is thriving and our communities are being invested in.
The ARCC community, covering Essex, Warren, Washington and northern Saratoga counties, is exploding with potential as the stars align. This year, the wins from grant awards (covering the planning of downtowns and infrastructure improvements, funding for broadband connectivity, private funded project grants and support for manufacturing, the arts and the craft beverage producers) will be utilized, expanding commerce and services for residents and tourists throughout the many villages, towns, the city of Glens Falls, Lake George and beyond.
We foresee a plethora of development embarking upon our region. If 2016 is any indicator, it will be imperative that we are prepared and continue advocating for community grants that upgrade existing infrastructure to expand capabilities.
Investment is time and money. We need to be sure we offer a defined process that outlines what is entailed to do business and/or build within jurisdictions. We must take due diligence and work with individuals that seek to invest. Infrastructure short-comings and restrictions need to be discussed and plans put in motion that resolve these issues in a timely manner.
By maintaining strong communications among business community organizations, educational leaders, partners in economic development, our regional elected officials and our IDA, we can take it on as a team sport. We have the players necessary to determine a plan of action that employs the strength of each entity and propels our support in a cohesive direction.
Each of our organizations play a part in providing the resources necessary for businesses to invest, and just as important provide the resources required to retain existing operations. If 2017 is to capture every possible endeavor that potentially complements our communities, we need to do it collectively by collaborating in the best interest of the investor, on behalf of our regional stakeholders.
We believe we will continue to see businesses blooming from individuals driven by their passion in a myriad of service and product offerings. This region is ripe with entrepreneurial spirit and forward thinking that is branding the way we live, work and play in the Adirondack region. It highlights the potential to operate successfully while enjoying a quality of life, we would argue, is second-to-none.
With Lake George 365 gaining momentum, coupled with marketing efforts to secure conventions and tours, we are creating a year-round destination to live, work and play. Technology affords business transactions to occur wherever the individual is, for the most part, and people are choosing to live in communities that are safe, have good school systems and easy-to-get-to recreation with easy access to urban amenities.
With seasoned professional’s planning and executing what we enjoy in villages, towns, Lake George and downtown Glens Falls, coupled with a younger generation craving to play a part and bringing their insight to the discussions, we are achieving a dynamic and diverse perspective that is attractive to locals and those yet-to-locate individuals.
This is important, as New York state continues to experience population decline. Access to technology and creative, innovative available space that appeals to our XYZ Gens will be key in retaining and attracting a workforce. The rate of workers retiring presents available executive opportunities that previously would have taken years to promote into.
This gives us an advantage we should tap into. With SUNY campuses serving our region and educating both locals and potential future residents, we should engage, embrace and explore every opportunity to secure this funnel of future workforce.
Additionally, WSWHE BOCES has expanded courses and certifications to appeal to both technology and traditional trade skills employers. We have to invest in workforce. By supplying a multi-skilled workforce, it differentiates us from other parts of the state. Additionally, this balance of economy supports our efforts for a year-round playground of activities that still give a hometown, community feel.
We believe it will require ongoing planning, communication and embracing the change that is all around us. And we’re positioned and dedicated to supporting the diverse industries harmoniously coexisting in our region.