Regarding your Dec. 29 editorial “Region must take steps to ensure our prosperity”: I find several points to ponder and more to disagree with.
Does Snohomish County’s prosperity cycle with Boeings ups and downs or the national economy as a whole? Why is it that Boeing repeatedly complains about the business climate when others, such as Microsoft, WAMU, Paccar, Starbucks and Expedia are doing well? Many suspect that Boeing’s problems have more to do with unions and Airbus than our state’s business climate.
Let’s hear about solutions for fixing gridlock. We know about the problems. Our education system is among the best in the nation and one of the reasons why companies locate here. Our tax system is too dependent on the sales tax, but states with different tax structures are faring no better in this economic slump. Again, let’s hear some suggestions. Land use permit system: How about specifics? Is it just too slow and cumbersome or an effort to balance the needs of development with the well meaning concerns of our future?
Quality of life is another reason why companies locate here and that quality does not mean selling more homes, cars, refrigerators or even newspapers. It does mean quality education, health care, recreational opportunities, cultural events and concern for the environment. If the Economic Development Council addresses these quality of life issues as well as improving the business climate, then, and only then, will we have true progress and far-sighted thinking.
Camano Island
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
