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What is your plan to support local businesses and economic development?
Ethan Briggs — Township Supervisor · Township Administration · Alpha Township, Charlie County, DL
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How I am best suited to handle this
As a local developer with a proven track record of creating jobs and revitalizing neighborhoods, I understand what businesses need to succeed. I’ve worked on projects that brought new retail and housing to underutilized areas, and I know how to attract investment while respecting community needs.
How others are misleading you
Some suggest that focusing only on small businesses will solve our problems, but this approach limits our growth potential. We need a comprehensive plan that includes attracting larger industries while fostering local entrepreneurship.
The facts behind this issue
While small businesses are important, they can’t drive the kind of economic growth we need alone. Larger employers, such as regional distribution centers or tech hubs, can bring hundreds of jobs and stimulate local spending. My plan balances small business support with incentives for larger companies to invest here.
What I would do differently
I would focus on streamlining zoning and permitting processes to make Alpha Township more business-friendly. Many potential investors avoid our township because of bureaucratic hurdles. By reducing red tape, we can attract businesses that create jobs and grow our tax base.
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How I am best suited to handle this
As a town planner, I’ve spent years working with municipalities to design balanced growth strategies. I’ve helped develop zoning policies that protect green spaces while enabling sustainable development, and I’ve overseen projects that increased community accessibility while fostering economic growth. My hands-on experience gives me the tools to craft a development plan that aligns with Alpha Township’s character and priorities.
The facts behind this issue
Unchecked development can lead to urban sprawl, increased traffic congestion, and loss of natural habitats. By adopting sustainable zoning practices and incentivizing eco-friendly developments, we can create a thriving local economy without sacrificing our township’s unique character.
What I would do differently
Unlike Ms. Monroe and Mr. Briggs, I would emphasize smart growth principles that prioritize walkability, green spaces, and mixed-use developments. These strategies attract residents and businesses while preserving the small-town charm that makes Alpha Township special.
Where we have gone wrong in the past
We’ve relied too heavily on piecemeal development projects that cater to short-term gains rather than a long-term vision for the township. My plan ensures that every development aligns with a comprehensive strategy for economic and environmental sustainability.
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The facts behind this issue
Alpha Township is at a crossroads. While we’ve seen modest growth in small businesses, our local economy remains vulnerable due to a lack of diversified industries and declining infrastructure investments. Nearly 30% of our residents commute out of the township for work, which limits local spending and weakens our tax base. To thrive, we must attract sustainable economic development while protecting the character that makes our township unique.
What I would do differently
Unlike previous administrations that focused solely on attracting large businesses, I would prioritize supporting and expanding local enterprises. My plan includes providing grants and low-interest loans to small businesses, upgrading infrastructure to attract clean industries, and revitalizing our town center to create a welcoming space for residents and visitors alike.
Where we have gone wrong in the past
In the past, we’ve pursued economic growth without considering its long-term impacts on our community. For example, granting tax breaks to large corporations has sometimes led to short-term jobs but long-term strain on public services. My plan emphasizes balanced growth that benefits both businesses and residents.
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