Mayor's Blog
"The world is big. Surely there is a space in it for one like you and one like me." Patrick Ness, American author.
Recently, I had the privilege of providing a progress report on economic development from the perspective as Mayor of Jasper. First, and foremost, the local economy is influenced by many factors most of which are beyond our control. The City roles take place behind the scenes and we also serve as a public conduit for activity. Our success is measured by the following five strategies of economic development:
A Sense of Place
Now more than ever, Americans seek a community before a career. Think of it as looking for software first, then getting the hardware to make it work. It is essential for Jasper to continue to create and enhance our livability as we compete with larger cities for jobs and residents.
Infrastructure
This is where the hardware comes into play as today's decisions about utilities, streets, zoning and planning shape our future five, 10 or 25 years down the road.
Effective Governance
We have embarked on a continual improvement effort in the City of Jasper as we focus on internal processes and decision-making. "The way we've always done it" is rarely a solution.
Telling & Selling
To meet the needs of our local employers' growth and sustain our standards of living we need more citizens. We have a great City with an authentic history to share.
Working with Others
We are intrinsically connected other community builders and we strive daily to represent Jasper's interests.
We are blessed to have such a vibrant economic base. It is something we can never take for granted.
Mayor Terry Seitz
