Question – You talk a lot about economic development how does that apply to me and my family?

The primary investment that most of us in Duluth have is in our homes.  In many cases our homes are an integral part of our future retirement plan.  As such it is critical that our leaders have a plan that will promote increasing property value and marketability for the city as a whole. 

Currently we are surrounded by factors that are having a negative impact on our property values.  We have close to 1 million square feet of vacant commercial property in the Duluth area.  Long-term vacant property can be a breeding ground for theft, vandalism, trespassing and squatting. 

A central tenant in my campaign has been to highlight economic development.  Currently our Economic Development Manager reports to the Planning and Zoning Director.  I propose that our organizational chart be modified to elevate Economic Development to be on par with other department heads.  This change will allow more latitude in the decision making process resulting in compressed turnaround times for a final decision.

Duluth needs more businesses to locate within our community in order to create a more desirable place to live thus generating higher property values.  My opponent appears to have a different mindset with regards to how to attract and retain businesses.  During the five years I have attended council meetings I have witnessed my opponent repeatedly throwing up roadblocks in front of new businesses trying to locate in Duluth. Two of the more prominent businesses she tried to block were Pure Taqueria and Eddie Owen Presents both of which have become downtown anchors.

As part of my focus on economic development one of my priorities will be to create a more business friendly Duluth.  I propose a review and streamlining of regulations and applications so that only pertinent information is requested.  Our ordinances try to account for all conceivable outcomes rather than relying on the “spirit” of the law.  For example Duluth has a 16 page alcohol application; Fulton County’s application is 4 pages.   

Creating an environment where people want to live and developers want to develop is critical to a healthy city.  With a focus on reasonable and sustainable growth through sound economic development we can achieve growth in property values for all of Duluth.  That which you focus on is what you achieve.  We need to focus on economic development.

Please give me the opportunity to make a difference, vote David Cossette on December 3rd.