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Our economic infrastructure readies Tallahassee-Leon County for new business growth

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6 months ago

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Our economic infrastructure readies Tallahassee-Leon County for new business growth

Keith Bowers
 |  Your Turn

As director of the Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality, I am delighted to respond to Area Development Magazine’s recent accolade of our region, ranking the Tallahassee Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) as the “Strongest Economy in the Nation.”

The significance of this achievement cannot be overstated, especially considering the rigorous evaluation process undertaken by the publication. The comparison of Tallahassee MSA to 383 other MSAs across the United States, coupled with the meticulous analysis of 24 economic and workforce indicators, highlights the depth and breadth of our economic strength.

Tallahassee stands out as a beacon of prosperity, from robust job growth in industries offering higher-than-average wages to the steady expansion of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and the commendable reduction in unemployment rates.

This recognition is a testament to our current economic health and reflects the visionary leadership and strategic planning that has paved the way for our success. Our community leaders have exhibited foresight and commitment by allocating 12% of the revenue from the surtax to economic development initiatives. This decisive action has provided the financial backbone to foster growth and innovation.  Through everyone’s hard work, we have an economic infrastructure ready for growth and a diversified tax base, ensuring we can build and support a top-quality community with essential education, safety, and healthcare resources.

The existing businesses and entrepreneurs who continuously contribute to a dynamic business landscape are central to our thriving economy. Their relentless drive and ingenuity form the bedrock of our economic vitality. Additionally, the wealth of resources available through our esteemed institutions of higher learning—Florida State University, Florida A&M University, and Tallahassee Community College—play a pivotal role in nurturing talent and fueling research and development.

Our active chambers of commerce deserve recognition for their holistic approach to addressing the challenges faced by the business community. They have been instrumental in creating an environment where businesses can thrive, adapt, and innovate.

Tallahassee-Leon County has strategically focused on key industries, including healthcare, applied sciences, professional services, technology, and transportation/manufacturing logistics. This targeted approach has enabled us to leverage our strengths and attract investment, further cementing our status as an economic powerhouse.

A cornerstone of our inclusive economic strategy is the Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprise division of the Office of Economic Vitality. Through procurement opportunities and comprehensive support, we are fostering a diverse and inclusive economy where everyone has the chance to succeed.

In conclusion, Area Development Magazine’s ranking recognizes our collective efforts and strategic investments and celebrates our community’s resilience, innovation, and inclusivity.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the leaders, businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations that contributed to this remarkable achievement. Together, we will continue to build on this success and drive forward the economic vitality of Tallahassee-Leon County.@tallahassee.com

Keith Bowers is director of the Tallahassee-Leon County Office of Economic Vitality.

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