Tuesday, February 05, 2008
A chance now for a progressive Roanoke
From the RoundTable blog
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Lee Wilhelm
Wilhelm is chairman of the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Most people I talk to agree that the controversy over whether to build a restaurant on top of Mill Mountain is really just part of a larger debate -- debate over the future of our region. Can the words Roanoke and progressive ever be used together?
In general, the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce is an advocate of projects that will diversify our economic base, attract younger workers and sustain and improve the region's quality of life. These criteria also provide guidance on how our region can compete in an increasingly integrated, global economy.
All too often ideas on how to improve the region become bogged down in endless squabbling with little or no consideration given to how the proposal could enhance our region's competitive advantages.
Every economic development opportunity certainly needs to be scrutinized carefully. However, we need to be aware that time is critical when trying to attract new development to the region.
If economic development proposals are mired in incessant doubt and debate, we'll lose our ability to attract and retain young workers and fresh capital. There's always going to be somewhere else that has the infrastructure and quality of life that businesses and individuals are looking for. If we cannot agree on how to develop a vibrant downtown area, take advantage of our natural amenities, expand our technological base and attract new businesses, what will prevent our stagnant population growth from continuing?
One attractive feature of our community is a general willingness to recognize and appreciate the concerns of others who do not share our point of view. Citizens of our region generally respect each other's thoughts and ideas and are able to discuss their differences civilly.
But remember that the fundamental purpose of debate is to filter out error. Ideally, the give and take of public dialogue will produce a decision based on reasoned and substantive argument. As a community, let's demonstrate that we have the ability to move forward beyond debate and center our considerations on the consequences of our action for future growth.
The Roanoke Regional Chamber commends Valley Forward for a willingness to enter the public arena with a progressive, responsible economic development idea.
The young people of our region are its future, and examples of leadership such as the Valley Forward proposal are a good indication that there is passion about creating a valley that will be healthy, attractive and economically viable while enhancing our quality of life. But as a community, it will behoove us to commit to move beyond the terms of the current debate and focus our discussion of the merits of this project as it relates to our region's role in the global economy.
How this and future decisions are handled will send an important message about Roanoke's willingness to do what is necessary to be competitive in the economic future.
It's a chance for a progressive Roanoke and the time is now.
