It is easy to get mixed up in polarized politics – even at the local level. During those times, emotions drive opinions and opinions drive actions. And those actions are not always helpful when a community works to sort through complicated issues. There are other ways to get the job done.

The Chamber’s public policy arena has been striving to develop broad-based public polices, which reflect the interests of our members. These policies serve to provide the Chamber direction when specific issues arise in the community. Basically, these policies help us respond to any one issue in a more philosophical manner – i.e. planning for the long-term versus the short-term - rather than basing our response or public stand on a knee-jerk reaction. Most recently, we developed a broad-based fiscal policy that is pending approval from the Chamber board.
Looking ahead, we are gearing up to develop our Economic Development policy. Surely, there is no shortage of opinions in Duluth regarding how our community should build its economic base. The old attractive model of bringing in business to the community has had limited success. Of course, that is not to say we don’t welcome businesses who choose to operate out of community - United Health Care, Trueride, and Cirrus Design, for example, are all great and welcome additions to the Duluth Area. However, we must do more to than wait for businesses to simply come to us.

In addition to the usual considerations regarding economic development – competitiveness, taxation, and infrastructure – I would like to consider at least five additional areas in the Chamber’s economic policy: people, health care, transportation, housing, and energy/environment.

It is important to note that while it is my job to draft the policy, you, as our member, have a say in how this policy is developed. First, you can email me your thoughts. Secondly, you can attend our Government & Policy Task Force meeting on Wednesday, June 15 at 7:30 am and join in the discussion as we review the draft policy. Thirdly, you can email me after I blog about the draft policy on June 17. Once we have a workable draft, the policy will be forwarded to the Chamber board for final approval. Once the policy is adopted, I am confident the Chamber will speak on your behalf when issues regarding economic development arise in the Northland.

Please know that we appreciate your membership. If we don’t determine policy that represents your interests, who will?