Staying among the best

From The News & Observer
newsobserver.com
Published: Aug 15, 2008 12:30 AM

Mike Munn

RALEIGH – Triangle residents have long-known that we live in the best place in the country, but apparently the secret is out. Headlines have announced that Raleigh alone has been named the “best” in 22 different rankings this year — including the most recent MSNBC “Best Places to Live” list.

It’s not a fluke that the region has gained national prominence. Local employers, residents and leaders have worked hard to ensure that our region is among the finest — and arguably the finest — in the country. The solid economy, even with the nation’s economic difficulties, central location and excellent schools and universities make the area a top-tier place to live, work and raise a family. This continued success is directly associated with the area’s success attracting and managing growth.

With the accolades comes a renewed need to make sure we keep our well-planned goals in line and continue smart and balanced planning as we move forward. Obviously the plans already established have paid off, and we need to stay on track and be careful to avoid over-regulation and taxes that will affect our economy and eventually, quality of life.

It’s increasingly tempting for local communities to impose new and harsher taxes on homeowners, property owners and businesses — including impact fees and transfer taxes — in the name of growth management. But that only ends up hurting the residents who are working hard to make the region the success that it has become.

And taking the time to improve systems that are in place, but may need a little updating — such as Raleigh’s development approval process — will be critical for our region to continue to attract economic development opportunities and good jobs, a proven formula for successful growth. Good planning solves problems, and Triangle communities have put that philosophy to practice.

There are many regions that have grown — and grown a lot — but not many of them have consistently been placed at the top of the “best” lists like Raleigh and the surrounding cities. We’ve managed to do things the right way to keep our growth on track and create communities that are consistently recognized across the country.

It’s important that we not repeat mistakes that other fast-growing areas have made with high fees and stringent regulations that drive up the cost of housing and hamper efforts to improve our local economy and job opportunities for citizens.

Triangle residents are proud of the community we have built and continue to grow. Let’s hope we can live up to our “best of the best” honors for years to come.

Mike Munn chairs the Triangle Community Coalition, which represents builders and developers.

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