Keep pushing economic development

This recession is inflicting a lot of economic pain, and it's hard to see light at the end of the tunnel.

Getting beyond this downturn in the economy is particularly challenging, considering the huge spike in fuel prices. It is unique to this recession.

Still, we have weathered economic storms before, and the clouds will eventually clear on this one.

But economic recovery is not a happenstance event. It takes smart planning and sound decisions. Not only in the business world, but in government, where economic development is a key mission. The area needs to stay on top of this mission, and energize it.

Suburban government officials should be evaluating their economic development plans, and then asking questions.

Is the marketing strategy working to encourage new business development? The suburbs' educated work force, good schools, accessibility to transportation and proximity to Chicago are all selling points. But are these points being made?

Is there a need to develop new financial incentives to lure business to the area? Are financial incentives in place doing the job of expanding the tax base and providing employment to local residents, or are they a futile drain on the budget?

What is being done to keep business in place? Are there financial disincentives in government that are making it difficult for local firms and merchants to turn a profit, keep their customers or expand? If so, can these barriers be taken down without harm to the overall community?

One very good example of such a government disincentive is the recent increase in the Cook County sales tax. It has suburban Cook County communities and businesses rightfully angry and worried that customers will do their buying in other counties where the sales tax is much lower. Neighboring counties certainly aren't feeling bad about getting this new business. But their economic gains are Cook County's loss.

Yet it's not up to government alone to advance the economic fortunes of the community. Partnerships must be formed between the business, public and education sectors to assure everyone is on the same page in terms of what is needed to create and keep jobs, and assure that those who would seek these positions have the right education and skills to do well on the job.

The suburbs of Chicago became an area where commerce thrives because of visionary economic development strategy that established the area as a place where firms want to do business. Such visionary thinking - indeed new thinking - is even more important now as the economy sputters and many communities reach build out.

Tackling this recession - and fully enjoying the benefits of economic recovery - are the rewards of sound economic development policy.