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DEL.ICIO.USSam Olens speaks bluntly about Atlanta region
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Speaking to the Council for Quality Growth, Cobb Chairman Sam Olens did not mince words about the Atlanta region’s strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities.
Olens, who is also chairman of the Atlanta Regional Commission, has become more vocal about his frustrations with the state’s lack of attention to metro Atlanta’s issues.
The Republican leader has become increasingly critical of some of his fellow Republicans at the state capitol, especially on addressing the state’s infrastructure issues of transportation, water, health care and economic development.
Olens first outlined the region’s strengths. A highly educated workforce with excellent colleges and universities. A growing city of Atlanta with more tourist attractions. Strong closer-in suburbs (such as Cobb and Gwinnett) with more entertainment facilities. Good relationships between regional government, business and philanthropic leaders, showing maturity on dealing with issues. Suburbs that “aren’t lily white anymore,” which contributes to the region’s cultural offerings.
Then the weaknesses.
“We are too reliant on the car,” said Olens, adding that there’s not enough transit.
Then Olens outlined other weaknesses. He said he was “sick” over the 19 years of litigation between Georgia, Alabama and Florida over water. The state’s lack of effective economic development incentives to attract corporate headquarters and high-paying jobs. A state that “insufficiently supports infrastructure,” especially in the region.
The threats? “We’re losing high-paying jobs,” Olens said. “I believe we’ve had too much growth too fast,” he said. And the state seems “disinterested” in helping the region.
“The fact of the matter that the anti-Atlanta attitude did not change from Democrats to Republicans hurts,” Olens said. He then reminded luncheon guests that the region contributes to the state’s 4 percent sales tax and 6 percent income tax, but the state “still hasn’t gotten into high gear” to help the Atlanta region deal with its traffic problems.
“The missing party is the state, not the region or local governments. We are doing more than our fair share,” he said. “The state is resting on past accomplishments.” Then he went on to say that the complacency at the state level is “mind boggling.”
As to opportunities, Olens spoke of the region’s growing commitment to be environmentally sustainable. The region’s desire to invest in green space and parks. A new direction at the Georgia Department of Transportation. More tourist attractions. The opportunity for to let voters support regional initiatives. The possibility of reasonable tax reform. Then he questioned why we don’t provide incentives for school systems and counties to consolidate.
In the question-answer period, Olens was asked if would be interested in running for governor.
Olens’ response: “Next question?”
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