What changes, if any, should Frankfort make in its economic development strategy?
The number one issue facing the new mayor is how to successfully execute an economic development strategy that will minimize the effects of COVID-19, expand economic diversification beyond state government, oversee a city-wide revitalization and increase our population to support our small businesses.
Now, more than ever, we need a mayor with a strong economic and investment background, and a strong leader with the ability to communicate a vision for our economic future.
The fallout from COVID-19, unfortunately, will dominate our economic development strategy in the near term. My priority will be to help our existing small businesses receive the support they need and that city finances are prudently managed. As a financial professional, I have the knowledge and experience to make tough decisions so that we come through this crisis stronger than neighboring communities
We have become too reliant on state government for local jobs and to sustain our economy. I will create the “Remote Frankfort” initiative to recruit remote workers to move here and bring their jobs with them. We are now in the era of remote work and Frankfort’s quality of life has much to offer those seeking a less congested and less expensive place to live. Frankfort can become the “Zoom Town” of Kentucky.
Aside from parcels B &C, several redevelopment projects already in the works that, collectively, could transform our downtown by providing much needed living space. This is encouraging. I will see that we build on this momentum and embark on a city-wide revitalization that will make Frankfort a better place for all of us to live.
I believe our city is at a tipping point and future success is not assured. We need a leader who has the financial acumen, patience, and vision to see us through to the other side.