IGNITE MASON

In Mason County, as in many rural areas, economic development is more than just a catchphrase-it's the lifeline to a more prosperous and sustainable future. While cities and urban hubs often dominate headlines with tales of growth and advancement, rural communities face an equally pressing but less-publicized need: the revitalization of their local economies to ensure the sustained well-being of their residents.

Economic development isn't just about improving the bottom line of local businesses; it holds the key to enhancing the quality of life for every resident. For local governments, robust economic development means a stable tax base, which translates into better public services, improved infrastructure, and more resources for schools and public safety. When local businesses thrive, they generate revenue that can be reinvested into the community, fostering a cycle of growth and prosperity.

For families, a flourishing local economy means better job opportunities, leading to stable incomes, financial security, and an improved standard of living. It also means more opportunities for the next generation, reducing the exodus of young people searching for jobs in bigger cities. Moreover, with the increasing focus on work-life balance, a revitalized local economy can mean more jobs close to home, reducing commute times and giving families more time together.

In Mason County, the changes from large job numbers to more automation in traditional industries like agriculture, timber, and manufacturing combined with significant challenges such as substance abuse and a widening Prime Age Employment Rate gap, makes the task of economic development even more urgent. This gap measures the employment rate of those aged 25 to 54, and its widening indicates many in their prime working years are unemployed or underemployed. 

This is where the IGNITE Mason coalition steps in, comprising our local and tribal governments and economic development groups. IGNITE Mason plans to submit a request for funding to the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) that will benefit Public Utility Districts Nos. 1 and 3, the Ports of Shelton, Allyn, and Grapeview, the Shelton, North Mason and Mary M. Knight school districts, the Skokomish and Squaxin Island Tribes, the City of Shelton, Mason County, community organizations, and local businesses.

Our mission is clear and pressing: to spark growth, innovation, and technological advancements, making Mason County a hub of prosperity and opportunity.

Thanks to the stong support of U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer, D-Gig Harbor, we are working on putting forth a $55 million RECOMPETE grant proposal encompassing strategic projects, from infrastructure upgrades to educational initiatives. These projects target the heart of our challenges, from workforce housing development to electrical capacity expansion and broadband, each designed to meet the unique needs of our community.

Our coalition's efforts reflect a deep understanding that economic development is multi-faceted. For instance, equipping our younger generation with the skills required for tomorrow's jobs, as proposed in our career and technical education projects, ensures that Mason County remains competitive in a changing global landscape. Similarly, our focus on tackling substance abuse addresses a severe public health crisis and aims to reintegrate valuable community members into the workforce.

The support of Representative Kilmer serves as a testament to what can be achieved when local interests align with federal priorities. His belief in our vision underscores the significance of collaboration and unity in fueling progress.

 The path to economic rejuvenation requires concerted effort, strategic investment, and, most importantly, a shared vision. Through the IGNITE Mason coalition, we have an opportunity not just to rebuild but to reinvent our local economy for the betterment of all Mason County residents for generations, now and in the future. With your support, together, we can ensure that Mason County's future is bright, prosperous, and inclusive for all its residents.

■ Joe Schmit is the chair of the Economic Development Council of Mason County and the deputy mayor of Shelton