The New Castle County Chamber of Commerce believes that economic development and a positive quality of life are not mutually exclusive. The county council's resolution reinforces the notion that the only way residents should define their quality of life is traffic. This is simplistic and short-sighted. Nothing affects the quality of life residents currently enjoy more than job opportunity. Quality jobs, created by employers large and small, produce benefits that reach into the entire community.
People can afford to purchase homes and pay property taxes.
Local businesses thrive when people spend money on furniture, groceries and other products and services for their families. Local government and the community benefit when employers pay their taxes and impact fees. Studies have shown that a community's job base can create expectations and perceptions. For example, when there is unemployment or underemployment, people tend to expect a lower quality of life. Therefore, council's actions reach beyond AstraZeneca.