January 8, 2009

editorial

An opportunity for new thinking

“Economic development” sounds, to many of us, a little vague, a little mysterious. It’s something that other folks do. Most often those other folks are leaders of local governments who try to lure big box stores or global businesses to town, seeking a quick fix in the hunt for new job opportunities. Sometimes these businesses succeed, but often they don’t. (DHL in Wilmington comes to mind).Then, the town’s economy crashes as the hunt for a new quick fix begins again.

But another, very different, approach to economic development is taking hold in this country, fueled by the faltering economy and the need for sustainable environmental practices. This approach asserts that small, local businesses are the bedrock of a dynamic community. Often called “re-localization,” this method emphasizes both strengthening existing businesses and creating new ones to fill local needs. One of the creators of this approach, Michael Shuman, will soon visit Yellow Springs.

Shuman will present the principles of “re-localization,” and his analysis of Yellow Springs’ needs, at “Going Local,” a weekend workshop sponsored by the Smart Growth Task Force and Village Council. All interested persons are invited, although organizers especially welcome business people, educators and anyone interested in local economic development. The event takes place Friday through Sunday, Jan. 16–18; workshop attendees are asked to sign up by Jan. 10.

Towns across the country, ranging from Ann Arbor, Mich., to Bellingham, Wa., are adapting Shuman’s approach to their own strengths and needs, instigating such strategies as local currency, community stock for local investment and festivals based on local products. Some communities, such as St. Lawrence Co., N.Y., have gone more deeply toward a local economy. There, organizers launched a new municipal electric company and the area now produces (via local farms) its own source of alternative energy. This approach is not a quick fix; rather, it requires community involvement, creativity and collaboration. In return, supporters say, it offers a local economy that is both sustainable and empowering.

Economic development, with this approach, isn’t vague nor mysterious, and it’s not something that other folks do. Rather, everyone can take part. It’s exciting that villagers have this opportunity to think in new ways about our local economy.

—Diane Chiddister