I’ve been thinking about the recent Realtor/Builder Trade Show. First, it was a great job by both organizations.
But, its the theme, “Renaissance,” that really caught my attention. What a great message for where we are right now with our economy, especially in Jacksonville. Rather than focus on “Woe is me,” we are thinking about new beginnings, revival and recovery.
“Renaissance” means getting a new start. Not only is that the right attitude for us to have, we are so fortunate to live in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida where we have so much going for us, and so many assets on which we can rebuild.
We’re the third most populous city on the east coast behind New York and Philadelphia.
Our international seaport employs 7,000 people, we import and export goods to more than 100 countries, and we’re home to the world famous Mayo Clinic.
Northeast Florida has miles of beautiful beaches, a wonderful river and some of the best fishing in the world. And, Jacksonville has one of the largest park systems in the country.
Mayport is the most requested assignment in the Navy, and our Navy family is second to none in the world. Securing a nuclear aircraft carrier for Mayport is a very big deal for our future.
We have the PGA and Players, the Jacksonville Jaguars, Florida-Georgia, and we’ve hosted a Super Bowl.
And, perhaps best of all, Jacksonville is loaded with hard working people who do the right thing.
I know times remain tough right now. But, there’s no reason we can’t build the most competitive city of the 21st century.
There is so much we can do that will create jobs and build commerce that will attract people and create an economy where people can purchase the homes we build and sell.
For a moment, in a spirit of “Renaissance” and renewal, think about some of the things we can do because of who we are and where we live.
We now have the ability to inject intelligence into economic development, transportation, education, public safety, health care delivery and environmental protection.
We can build the technological infrastructure that will attract economic investment and create job growth, and use technology to educate our children to their highest level of achievement and prepare them for high-tech jobs and life in the 21st century.
One day we will implode the old courthouse and city hall annex, opening the opportunity to build a convention center in that location that is competitive with cities like Charlotte, Nashville, Savannah, Indianapolis and Kansas City. That one investment will create hundreds–if not thousands–of jobs, attract thousands of visitors, add millions of dollars in new taxes, and become a magnet for surrounding private investment.
That’s just one huge opportunity in front of us, and there are many others.
So always remember that a “Renaissance” is on the way. We have the assets; we’re located in the right place; we have the capabilities, and we should not limit our thinking.
— Jim Bailey is president of Bailey Publishing & Communications and publisher of Realty/Builder Connection.