With the legislative session slated to begin on Jan. 12th, the question arises again and again as to what we really need from our legislative bodies this year.
There are many things we want, but in this economic cycle, the reality is that we will be challenged to come up with new and innovative ways to accomplish the things that will help us be successful.
In order to get this economy back on the right track, we must focus on our needs – some of which are far bigger than any of us individually.
The Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce recently asked its members what the most important issues are in the upcoming session and asked members to rank them in order of importance. It was impressive to see that the vast majority of members looked at issues far more important to the region instead of focusing on their own individualized issues.
If the region wins, we all win!
Expectations of legislators
Creativity and bipartisan cooperation is a good start – a good idea is a good idea regardless from which side of the aisle it originated.
Willingness to try new or revised programs and ideas is also on the list. Our state’s elected officials have shown that they are more than willing to set aside their differences and act quickly to support and implement good ideas. For many of us, there has not been a time during our lives when this has been more important to our nation, states, counties, cities and citizens.
Ranked No. 1 by the chamber membership as a catalyst for economic growth, we need our elected representatives to focus on the Interstate 5 bridge crossing. Freight mobility, rail projects and overall improvements to regional transportation are necessities for this area to remain competitive in timing and pricing issues that affect us all through increased costs of goods.
We also need an actual Tax Increment Financing tool for use throughout Washington. I believe that 48 other states have bona fide TIF tools. Do we actually think we’re smarter than those other 48 states, or could it be that we are missing out on an opportunity to jump start some projects?
Expanding programs such as the Main Street Tax Credit program seems to be a no brainer.
The enormous problem of availability and affordability of health insurance continues to grow with no apparent end in sight. This issue is crippling many businesses and families and although this fix probably won’t get done in the upcoming year, there needs to be a starting point.
Let’s make this year the starting point.
Last, but certainly not least, is funding for education. Pre K-12 students need to be ready for higher education and this can only be done through a well-supported public school system. Southwest Washington is the least served region in the state when it comes to higher education.
There are several current projects that warrant the continued funding to become realities and these need to be done as soon as possible so we don’t lose any of the momentum gained in the past few years. Clark College and Washington State University Vancouver are phenomenal community assets and we need to ensure they stay that way.
Thank you to our legislators in advance.
Kim Capeloto is president and chief executive officer of the Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce.
