Ohio's Keys to Success: Logistics and Education

 As I go door to door, I talk to people about a variety of issues.  One issue that comes up often is economic development and job creation.  In my time as a State Representative I have learned a great deal about businesses in Ohio.  Whether it is my work as the Vice-chair of the Economic Development Committee, sitting on the Finance Committee, or being a member of Development Financing Advisory Council, my time as a State Representative has been a learning experience.

While there are some businesses leaving Ohio, there are also businesses that are choosing to locate in Ohio.  Their reasons for locating here are varied, but the two reasons that come up most often are logistics and education.  With the lakes to the north, the rivers to the south, and rail lines and highways everywhere in between, businesses acknowledge that Ohio is well situated for economic activity.  The other piece is education.

 
Education is incredibly important to the success of our state.  As such, I am dedicated to ensuring that all of Ohio’s children receive a quality education.  By educating our children, we produce an educated workforce, which is a high priority for businesses locating here.  On the West side, we are investing in education through community learning centers, which serve to educate the children in our communities, but also serve as hubs for community activity.  Cincinnati Public Schools have partnered with organizations such as the Heath Department, the Cincinnati Recreation Commission, the Boys and Girls club, Imago, and other community groups to create vibrant, active, learning centers in their communities.
Quebec school will be an example of one such community learning center on the West side.
 
When we talk about producing a competitive business climate for Ohio, education needs to be part of that discussion.
 
I hear talk about taxes, and taxes certainly play into the equation.   In Ohio, business taxes were replaces with a CAT tax.  We have created a tax climate friendly to businesses.  We now have to ensure that we are investing in the things we need to be investing in: logistics and education.