Education and workforce development issues remain the major concern for Georgia legislators and the public, but in this year's legislative session we have a unique opportunity to take the next step in true reformation and in making improved education a reality - affecting our youth, our businesses, and the economic growth of our state. Gov. Roy Barnes continues to highlight education as a top priority in his administration. And that's important for our state's future. We in the Georgia Economic Developers Association couldn't agree more. As the state's forum for networking and professional development among economic developers, the 1,100-member organization strongly advocates public policies to support quality economic development and job creation.
Education is certainly one of the recurring concerns.
Our concerns reflect those of the general public. Our recent polling of Georgia citizens clearly indicates that they continue to agree that promoting quality economic development is an important role of state and local governments. The greatest perceived obstacle to quality economic growth in Georgia, however, continues to be inadequate education and training. We also conducted an e-mail poll of our membership, soliciting opinions on public policy issues affecting economic development activity in Georgia. A strong majority of respondents expressed support for improving the level of educational achievement in their communities, even if that requires a tax increase.