The Detroit News is highlighting ideas from various groups to promote discussion on reform, restructuring government and the economy.
Coordinate economic development efforts
Idea 23: Coordinate economic development and Michigan law around Michigan's most obvious resources -- our international border with Canada, our abundance of fresh water and our world-class research capabilities
Why: The state is spending millions of dollars on the award-winning "Pure Michigan" campaign, but numerous local units of governments are spending money on their own sometimes confusing and ineffective campaigns. Michigan's border with Canada carries more trade than any other in North America -- an inherent competitive advantage. Michigan is in the center of the largest sources of fresh water in the world -- a natural competitive advantage. And Michigan's world-class research universities, hospitals and other institutions cannot be easily duplicated by our competitors.
"The Vital Center" -- a report issued by the Brookings Institution in 2006 -- pointed out these advantages for us and the Great Lakes region. The common thread through these three areas is that they cannot be easily "stolen" by competitors or outsourced outside of the United States.
Benefits: If Michigan could align state public policies with our best resources, we could drive future economic development more efficiently.
How: Leadership by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan's Legislature and Congress to work together to focus on agreed-upon areas for promotion.
Obstacles: Parochial differences of opinion and cost.
Source: Detroit Regional Chamber
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