Why Economic Diversity?

Many economists point to economic diversity as a key to communities weathering economy downturns. Regions that rely too heavily upon a single natural resource (oil, diamonds, lumber) or single industry (automotive, software) are dramatically hurt by slowdowns in those sectors and the hurt ripples out quickly. The recovery is also slower.

Thus we seek to support and develop a multitude and complex economy -- with farming, manufacturing, information & communication technology, rehabilitation of brown fields and new construction, health care, design, education, and other services. We also seek to include a wide variety of sizes of companies as there is overwhelming research that big box stores (Walmart, Meijers, Sams Club) drain more from communities than they bring in over time. Smaller, locally owned companies not only hire the same number of people, they spend their money at home rather than sending profits elsewhere. Their profit margins are usually spread more fairly between owners and line workers.

We aren't afraid to spend a little more for products made here by free citizens. We know it is as an investment; one with considerably higher financial return:

• saved jobs,
  
• new jobs,
  
• wages families can survive on,
• land, water, and air quality that will continue to attract and retain businesses and families in mid-Michigan.