Let me first say that even if I had a negative assessment of the Kentucky Capital Development Corporation (KCDC), I would not publicly air it in the paper or otherwise. KCDC will be an important partner to help the next mayor implement their economic development plan, and economic growth is a central theme of my campaign to be the next mayor.
Overall, I agree with KCDC’s Mission, Vision, and Goals. I do prefer a greater focus on recruiting new residents who will bring their jobs/small businesses with them (ex. remote workers who have the choice to live anywhere). I believe this “bottom up” approach will be more sustainable over the long-term. I will collaborate with KCDC leadership to work on plans to help Frankfort benefit from rapidly changing economic forces shaping our region and world.
Frankfort needs to be not only competitive, but the statewide leader in how to get things accomplished. It all comes down to leadership. If the mayor can establish the proper guidance, framework and tone, the rest is just a matter of execution. As mayor, I will work with KCDC to create our city’s goals, develop a focused plan of action, and monitor our shared progress to ensure Frankfort becomes the envy of the state.