Letter: Quality of life helps successful economy

The Sept. 15 Appeal recently reported on the survey done at the request of Carson City government by the economic research firm, Policom. As reported, Policom's President, William Furth, emphasized the need for high-paying jobs as the key to Carson City's successful economic future.

Interesting, in view of the ongoing discussions concerning bicycle and pedestrian facilities in Carson City, a timely article appeared in the Sep. 11 issue of the Christian Science Monitor under the title: "Lifestyle Drives Today's Workers." Several significant quotes appeared in the subtitle: "New Economy workers want outdoor cafes and bike paths - and they are choosing jobs in cities that have them."

"Salary, according to a KPGM survey of high-tech workers, was the top consideration (in location decisions). But it was followed by 'community quality of life' factors, which outstripped stock options, other economic benefits, and even company stability as key criteria. Interestingly, the lifestyle features that appeal to young New Economy workers are not identical with those sought by more traditional demographic groups. Florida says the social and cultural amenities that held appeal in the past were more passive (symphony, opera, ballet) and more expensive (pro sports arenas).

While New Economy workers value these, they are secondary, says Florida, to "...more casual, open, inclusive and participatory activites' ranging from rowing and cycling facilities to outdoor cafes. The emphasis on lifestyle is giving hope to smaller communities largely left out of the technology revolution."

Reading the above report in conjunction with the Policom survey causes one to wonder if many in Carson City, particularly the leadership of the Carson City Chamber of Commerce, are on the proper side of the bicycle and pedestrian amenities question. Their opposition to the city's proposals for bike paths and sidewalks seems perhaps not to be in Carson City's best economic interest. Assuming, of course, that the Chamber's leadership wishes to see higher wage jobs come to Carson City.

It should be noted that not all Chamber members are in agreement with the leadership's position and were certainly not surveyed on this question prior to the Chamber's board and others in leadership positions expressed their opposition to the freeway multi-use path as well as to curbs and sidewalks in the Arrowhead industrial area.

DAVID GISSEN, Member

Carson City Chamber of Commerce