That same process reflects how the Highlands County Economic Development Office works to strengthen our local economy. Community partners, each an essential piece of the economic growth puzzle, work together to support sustainable growth across the county.
In a recent podcast with Sara Beth Murphy, Executive Manager of the Highlands County Economic Development Office, we discuss how the many parts of our community connect to build and support the local economy.
I asked Sara Beth what qualities businesses and organizations value most in Highlands County. Quality of life ranked near the top. I believe, as many others do, that Highlands County is a wonderful place to live, raise a family, or enjoy a more relaxed retirement. It remains one of Florida’s best-kept secrets. One goal of our economic development efforts is to promote sustainable growth while protecting the quality of life we cherish.
One recent economic success is the Amazon Distribution Center in Lake Placid. The project took two years of coordinated planning and shows how county and local partners can work together to bring a major project to completion.
I have often heard students say, “I can’t wait to get out of here,” only to return after experiencing the faster, more complicated pace of life beyond the county line. Sometimes, they do not yet recognize the value of what they have here.
Our county still has important needs. We need businesses and manufacturers that offer higher-paying jobs, along with more housing for employees of companies and industries located in Highlands County. Our roads and infrastructure must keep pace with population growth, and our schools must continue expanding high school programs that help students explore career options through hands-on, project-based learning.
Economic growth is a living thing that requires care, attention, and support from the entire community. Growth and change are on our doorstep, and we can grow by choice or by crisis. All the community partners and members will need to be involved in a proactive approach, so we have the growth we want and desire.
The pieces of the economic growth puzzle are already on the table; none are missing. We simply need to keep putting them together. Listen to today’s podcast as Sara Beth Murphy explains how those pieces are coming together for Highlands County.
John Rousch is a columnist, podcaster, and a 58-year veteran educator. He can be reached at 863-273-0522 or johnrousch73@gmail.com. Check out “Flightlines – The Stories Behind the Stories” on YouTube.com/@flightlinesthestories. Website: flightlinestories.com
