An interesting series of articles from the Lansing State Journal on what it's going to take to grow business, Nearly every single article reflects the importance of the eight assets that are the key elements of the League's Center for 21st Century Communities. Most important - a new attitude.
Former Lansing Mayor and outgoing CEO of Prima Civitas David Hollister, writes on how Mid-Michigan needs to harness already existing key ingredents found in other growing areas. Namely a university, entrepreneurial attitiude, regional approach to development, large numbers of knowledge workers and nimble and creative organizations.
Bob Tresize of the Lansing EDC discusses the need for a strong urban core at the center of revitalization. Doug Stites, President and CEO of Capital Area Michigan Works notes that its time for the old guard to get out of the way and make room for a new kind of enterprenuer. Other authors discuss the need for greater regionalism as well as the need to celebrate and focus on successes and talk about what's good.
It seems more and more folks around our state in any number of disciplines -- private, non-profit, governental, education, etc -- are getting the message. Its time for a new strategy, a 21st Century strategy that will invest in our communities and create a economic resugence in our state.
Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
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