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07182005
Business goes on in the midst of the Erie County Budget Crisis
In the midst of the media’s focus on the Erie County budget crisis, positive results of the Partnership’s NOW campaign continue to improve our region's economic potential.
Last Tuesday officially marked the fourth year of “NOW,” which was created to address many of the top issues that are preventing our region from successfully competing for jobs and investment (as identified by site selectors who chose not to relocate their business here).
The fourth anniversary was highlighted by a significant event, and a major accomplishment for NOW: Six IDAs in Erie County ushered in a new spirit of economic cooperation by signing an MOU pledging to offer uniform incentives to new and expanding businesses. It's a historic agreement that shows what can happen when folks put parochialism aside and our region first.
A good example to others in Erie County.
Over the last four years, NOW has experienced both successes and challenges. As you might imagine, we have made significant gains in areas where the private sector can drive change and where minimal public sector involvement is needed. We have also learned that many public officials want change, but that the culture of their government bureaucracies often stymies their efforts. We are hopeful that these officials will become more instrumental in these reforms in the future; we know that we need to work together to achieve more progress.
Thanks to all of the volunteers who have worked so hard to sustain NOW. By staying dedicated to the initiatives, they have made significant inroads that will contribute significantly to our region's economic competitiveness. We look forward to their continued involvement and the involvement of new volunteers as NOW continues into its fifth year.
Click to review our full 16th Quarterly NOW Report.
Sincerely,
Andrew J. Rudnick
President & CEO
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07182005
