The editorial in today's Star Gazette did a very nice job of summing up some concerns with the transition taking place in Albany - and possible new direction.
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New governor must embrace Spitzer's upstate plan
Lt. Gov. Paterson's New York City roots could be a concern for economic development.
March 13, 2008
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One thing we cannot take away from Governor Spitzer was his commitment and focus on upstate NY. I hope that remains under Lt. Gov. Paterson when he assumes the governorship on Monday.
When Spitzer was elected to office he gave Empire State Development two leaders or co-chairs. One dedicated to downstate (NYC and Long Island) and one dedicated to upstate NY. I believe this was a step in the right direction.
Upstate NY has tremendous potential and opportunities. These opportunities differ from downstate opportunities. We needed a mechanism to seize the right opportunities and advance promising ones with energy and focus.
But given that - it is not enough.
We must continue to spend some time working together collaboratively. And it is not enough to just talk about working together we need a plan for action.
ACTION being the key word.
On March 7th - Pipeline 4 Progress held its first regional input meeting. Additional input meetings are scheduled. Click here for more information on future meetings and webinars.
P4P will take the input, information and strategies gathered and discussed and help put them in motion.
But P4P can't do this alone. The help and support of the community, the region and upstate NY is critical to success. From community leaders to business leaders to non-profits to colleges and universities. We must have a collaborative, public and inclusive approach.
Upstate NY is on the right track... working together towards regional collaboration. And we can't afford to stop now.
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