Can't Fix the Problem? declare it Not Broken.

Vermont’s Agency of Commerce and Community Development recently launched a new campaign called Pursue Vermont that touts the state’s quality of life and business growth to entice Boston area Vermont college grads to leave their new home and come back to Vermont. The campaign is based on the notion that these people really want to live here but think they can’t afford to do it. Rather than proving them wrong the campaign tries to lure them back by reframing the issue as one about quality of life rather than money. Kevin Dorn, Vermont’s secretary of commerce and community development says, “Vermont, it’s more than just about the job - it’s the life that you have with the job.”

Indeed. But what is that life if you work two jobs to get by? I can’t help but interpret this campaign as more evidence of the fatalist mind set that pervades our state. Quality of life does not inevitably mean "poor."

Here’s an idea, instead of trying to trick them into moving back why not build an economy so prosperous they’ll want to come home on their own?

Comments

[Gregg Ballou]

Oh my God. Those poor ignorant young adults, I'll have to move to Boston so I can help warn them off of any crazy ideas of moving to VT. What would they do here? Be Schoolteachers? I hope I can get down there fast enough to ward off tragedy. Off course I do need to sell my house first, when are these people getting here? 'Vermont it's Like a Big Ponzi Scheme.'

[Jack Harding]

Mr. Decker makes a srong, fundamental point; rational, skilled people who have the option to be mobile will follow real opportunity as opposed to beautiful surroundings. If that opportunity continues to be in Boston they will simply drive their BMWs to VT for the weekends.

I also share Mr. Decker's frustration that our state organizations chartered with encouraging economic groth are satisfied to lead with a theme of "poor works if you have a nice view". While this is apparently true for the folks who stick around it won't attract those young people who will start companies, create jobs and pay taxes.