Incentives for Economic Development

We support creation of a process to evaluate and publish the effectiveness, business impact and cost versus benefit of permitting decisions, regulatory activity and proposed legislation prior to a required hearing on a proposal. Agencies should periodically determine whether they can repeal regulations that no longer serve a useful purpose. In addition to providing a positive regulatory climate and limiting the tax burden on business, government can do much to aid and direct economic development by establishing and supporting venture and seed capital funds, by consolidating and improving the effectiveness of the state’s business development incentive programs under a public /private Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, and by providing financial support to the most effective local economic development programs. Wisconsin must continue to support regional economic development cooperation through programs like New North. Other efforts deserving of continued support are: the local Business Assistance Center, Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Program (WMEP), Job Advantage Training Grant Program, targeted development of local industry clusters, further development of gaming as an important basis for local tourism and use of a portion of gaming compact dollars for equity investment and venture capital funds. Repeal state prevailing wage legislation because it increases the cost of public works and other capital improvement projects. Local governments should provide leadership and incentives for redevelopment of suburban commercial areas like the Ashwaubenon Development District and Military Avenue. Local governments must ensure that impact fees, building permit fees, inspection and connection fees reflect the actual cost of providing such services. Local and state officials must work to secure our fair share of federal funding, especially infrastructure funds and defense procurement.