Greg Mecklem on jobs, energy, and our economy

The key to keeping and creating good jobs for our county’s residents is to make better use of what we have.  This is no time to squander some of our best assets – rich farmland, productive forests, scenic beauty, and historic downtowns – on hopes that are failing us.  We don’t need more vacant urban land!  Rather, we must re-invest in our towns and cities, and keep farms productive.

As a business owner, I know the importance of strong management, innovation, creativity, and good stewardship of our resources.  I know too that local government can help or really hinder an entrepreneur’s best efforts.

As Commissioner, I want to see the County assist – not hamper – local business start-ups and expansions when they apply for permits and other approvals.  We can promote business growth in – not cannibalize – the the sustainable, steady parts of our economy: farming, forestry and their supporting industries; as well as the recreational and cultural attractions that flourish when country and city are in balance.

I will work tirelessly with public and private industry leaders to create that balance, to make Washington County, Oregon a “brand name” for smart growth, smart industries, renewable energy and green businesses.

We need to refocus.  Instead of (literally) betting the farm on attracting the next big employer from somewhere, we must take stock of what we have, and build on it.  We must:

• Facilitate local business start-ups and expansions;
• Fast-track incentives for businesses and homeowners to install solar power, boosting local jobs and cutting our energy costs;
• Design and build transportation systems that don’t threaten the stability of agriculture, but do make urban neighborhoods safe, convenient, and walkable;
• Revive urban areas with attractive, affordable housing clustered around town centers and transit corridors, and near employment centers;
• Upgrade vacant and underused urban land to attract new and expanding businesses, and encourage creative re-use of existing structures.  Re-zone if necessary.
• Engage our rural, suburban and city interests, the public and private sectors to better identify and meet community needs for housing, health care, education, arts, sports, and sustainable jobs.

Economic recovery does not start with paving over farmland.  It starts with incentives for making better use of what we’ve already developed. For instance:

• Tax credits or deferrals to better weatherize homes and businesses and install solar panels.
• Group purchasing arrangements with local manufacturers so homes and businesses, neighborhoods and business parks can purchase solar panels in bulk at reduced rates.

Increased manufacturing and installation of solar systems will mean more family wage jobs that can’t go offshore.  As our renewable energy use expands, we’ll cut energy bills and become more energy-independent at the same time.  As a County Commissioner, I will continue working with governmental and industry leaders to achieve sustainable smart growth for a healthy future.

I will be posting more about these ideas soon, and I welcome your comments or questions.