around the state is that the state lacks a clear vision for our 

economic development.

I believe the reason the state has been mired down in debates 

about stadiums, vouchers and other short-sighted investments, 

has been because of this lack of vision.

The investments I laid out are important ways for the state to 

ensure its long-term viability. We need to look ahead two, five, 

ten and twenty years down the road and make sure we are strong 

and stable.

The job of the next governor will be to lay out this plan, and 

judge each proposal and each investment according to how well 

it will move the state forward. No longer can we consider individual 

investments without asking ourselves, how will it impact the state’s 

growth? Will living wage jobs be created? And what do we need to do 

to sustain the positive impact of our investments?

One example of a long term investment that will impact the state for 

years to come is international trade. As we watch helplessly as the 

Asian economy suffers, we need to be proactive in seeking new markets 

for our businesses,new ways to compete internationally.

I believe I neglected in my earlier post to point out that I, too, am 

supportive of living wage proposals. Businesses receiving public money 

need to be required to pay wages that can support a family.

Thank you very much,