The Great Divide: Reaction Fear Of Growth Not Worth The Stagnant Price Increase In Disposable Income Pushes Us Forward

While discussing the economic differences between the two sides of our state, a friend said, “nothing has changed, as we had the same issues in the early 1950s.”

If nothing had changed in over 40 years, it would mean a great deal of effort has been expended without success. Since Spokane has had significant success in both private and public sectors, why has nothing changed?

Perhaps the perception is that nothing has changed, because our community has had less diversified growth, creating less disposable income resulting in an overall lower standard of living. While we have expanded our business diversification, it has been usually with gnashing of teeth and wringing of hands within the community.

Spokane has exceptionally talented people and a wonderful community pride. Why, then, does the community generally feel we cannot have growth without losing our sense of being rural, small and family-oriented? Why can’t Spokane seem to generate the votes to improve roads and schools? Why do we seem to accept an annual average wage that is $6,000 below that of residents on the western side?

Is the fear of growth really worth the price we are paying in educating students who then go elsewhere?

I suspect the majority in our community do want controlled growth and expanded services without losing any of the things that make Spokane special. We can improve discretionary income, eliminate the earnings gap, reduce poverty and fix streets. So what must we do?

First, we have to recognize that our region will always be more politically conservative, have less political clout in Olympia and always be a non-port, tier-two community. Second, we must understand that it is disposable income that will allow the community to push forward. Without increased disposable income we will reject the idea of public-private partnerships to build business and high-tech parks. Without more disposable income we will not make the investment necessary to stamp out poverty.

As a community we need to think positively about quality growth in jobs and real income. If we really want our children to stay in our community, we must not inhibit growth in companies that reside in the region. We must invest in an environment that will encourage emerging businesses, to locate in Spokane. We must expand our business and education partnership to make sure we are training people for the types of businesses we want to recruit. If we need more parking facilities to bring in the types of jobs we want or to revitalize our downtown, let’s build them. If we need to build business or high-tech parks, we must get started. If we want more high-technology or information companies, let’s provide them a place to locate.

Most of all, we need to capitalize on our community strengths and invest in the future. The solutions are not simple, but with a positive attitude we can make the difference.

ILLUSTRATION: Photo

MEMO: John Wagner is executive vice president of Seafirst Bank.