Atlanta Forward / Another View: Prepare now for economic recovery

By George M. Israel III

The recent recession has been tough on Georgia. Every city, county and region of this state has felt the impact, and while geography, industry or local politics may differ, we are all seeking the same road to recovery.

The Georgia Chamber of Commerce believes that the only way we can guarantee that recovery is if our state remains a place where businesses can thrive. Why? Because businesses create jobs, provide employee benefits and contribute to communities. Georgia’s ability to compete economically with other states, provide the necessary resources and infrastructure and offer a qualified work force is what will allow business to succeed.

As the General Assembly convenes this week, there is no question that our legislators are facing some incredible challenges. But there are also opportunities to lay the groundwork for future prosperity.

First and foremost, the state’s budget shortfall must continue to be addressed in a way that considers Georgia’s ability to attract business and encourages job creation. This includes the consideration of changes to the current tax system that would not only provide a competitive advantage in corporate recruitment, but also encourage existing businesses to remain and grow in our state.

Addressing Georgia’s infrastructure needs is equally important, and the most critical of these today is water. While cities across the state experienced one of the wettest years on record, our economic health has been threatened by the looming removal of Lake Lanier as a water supply source. We expect Gov. Sonny Perdue to bring forward recommendations developed by the Water Contingency Planning Task Force that will ensure access to water today and in the future for the citizens and businesses of this state.

As Georgia continues to grow, many communities are suffering from increased congestion. A great deal of time has been spent developing transportation funding proposals that would allow us to efficiently move both people and freight for decades to come, and we urge our elected leaders to reach consensus on this important issue.

Finally, no company can be successful without qualified workers. Measures to promote academic excellence, ensure sound leadership in our schools, create educational options and provide advanced skills training are all necessary for our communities to attract the jobs of tomorrow and for our state to build the nation’s best work force.

Of course, there are numerous other issues we will face during these next 40 days and throughout the year. Federal health care, climate change and labor proposals could easily cripple our nation’s economy and our state’s if we do not remain vigilant and engaged; 2010 will be another challenging year, but if we lay the groundwork now for the recovery to come, we will emerge stronger and better prepared for whatever the future might bring.

George M. Israel III is president and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce.