The final day of the conference was really good. We heard from Richard Florida and his insights are still the best in my opinion in building the regional economic development strategy. He made the following comments that resonated with me and other:

1. It’s time to rethink economic development. He made that comment in regard to the current US and global economic environment.  Real communities create real economic development and we have an obligation to the lead the way to create real value.  Local ED groups must do even more during this uncertain financial times for its communities. This is an urgent activity.

2. 45% of jobs are in the service sector. He challenged the group to take up as an agenda item to make these jobs more innovative and creative - in other words - upgrade the service economy.

3. Economic development comes from creating new jobs by doing things differently. It comes from the community working together by operating in a tolerant and diverse environment. We must attract the best people from around the world. (Pixel Optics is doing this in Roanoke).

4. All communities must have 5 layers to building a healthy regional economy. At the base is physical and economic security (investment in schools and low crime). At the second level is specialized opportunities for individuals to prosper. Third, leadership. Fourth, an environment of tolerance, openness and diversity. Finally, territorial assets or quality of place. How do we rate on each of the 5 layers?

5. We must invest in new forms of housing. People cannot move cause they cannot sell their house. People will not be able to afford to waste time, therefore, they will move closer to work. Perhaps condotels in Blacksburg or office/lofts similar to the Cotton Mill in downtown Roanoke for the creative class.

In case you have not read it, pick up a copy of Florida’s new book Who’s Your City.

New Orleans post-Katrina is continuing to transform itself into a vibrant community. Many young, creative class workers are looking at the opportunity to shape the new New Orleans. Part of the reason so many are coming there is they are wanted! The regions wants these people to move, live and get involved. They are embraced, celebrated and are giving opportunities to shape their region.

Are other communities this accommodating to the younger creative class of workers? If not, why? Maybe our region need a 540rward!

This article about the rise of Boulder. Colorado to a technology, entrepreneurship and creative class hub is the best example of the passion this blog - Connecting People - has for the RNR (Roanoke and New River Valleys). This article clearly outlines steps our region must take into transforming it into the new economy.

We feel the three aspects our region must focus more on are: (1) understanding of the importance and use of technology in their personal and professional lives; (2) an aggressive and proactive entrepreneurship program, which will create more businesses; and (3) the realization of the mass labor shortage due to Boomer retirements and creating a workforce with billable skills in the regional economy.

We see many native sons and daughters leave for larger metro areas (8,500 in the 1990s). This exodus is occurring in 90% of metro areas in the nation. There are only 2-3 dozen cities that have a net gain in this coveted creative class population. Many second and third tier cities who struggle with brain drain have created programs and events to turn around this phenomenon. Roanoke is no different. The City Manager created a position to address this nearly 3 years ago. That vision is now being recognized at the International Economic Development Conference in Atlanta in late October. Roanoke was invited to present at this prestigious event to hundreds of other economic development leaders from around the world. Creative class guru, Richard Florida, will be the keynote earlier in the morning. This is one example of progress and recognition from others Roanoke is creative and progressive in addressing this issue. Native sons and daughter who grew up in Roanoke and those who currently reside in Roanoke should be aware of the steps being taken to turn it around. This blog will continue to provide information and resources to those looking to returning, wanting to stay, or who are just interested and passionate about their community. Your feedback is appreciated as we prepare to present at this conference.