Economic director: Charlotte Co. economic development stronger than ever — Moore about Business
Economic director: Charlotte Co. economic development stronger ... WGCU
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Regional Economic Recovery and Sustainable Development Goals
Introduction
As regional economic recovery continues from COVID-19 and Hurricane Ian, I had the opportunity to interview Dave Gammon, the Economic Development Director of Charlotte County. Gammon recently addressed a group of Southwest Florida commercial realtors, discussing the county’s progress and challenges in achieving sustainable development goals.
Economic Recovery and Concerns
Gammon expressed his initial concerns about economic recovery in Charlotte County after the hurricane. He feared a recession and anticipated negative impacts on economic development. However, he was pleasantly surprised by the county’s resilience and successful recovery.
Balancing Growth and Community Charm
Gammon highlighted the community’s desire to balance growth with preserving the charm of Charlotte County. Many residents have expressed concerns about excessive growth and its potential negative effects. Gammon emphasized the need for finding a middle ground that allows for sustainable development while maintaining the community’s unique character.
Challenges in Development
Gammon discussed the challenges faced in development, including opposition from certain groups. He mentioned the acronyms commonly used in these discussions, such as NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) and BANANA (Build Absolutely Nothing Near Anything). These attitudes hinder progress and pose obstacles to achieving sustainable development goals.
The Live Local Act
Gammon praised the Live Local Act, a bill sponsored by Florida Senate President Kathleen Passidomo, as a potential solution. This act, which came into effect on July 1, allows for the conversion of commercial properties into residential ones. It also permits maximum density and height within a mile radius. Gammon described this act as a game changer for sustainable development in the county.
Staff-Level Approval and Affordability
One significant aspect of the Live Local Act is that it grants staff-level approval, bypassing the need for County Commissioners’ input. However, there is a condition: 40% of the housing built under this act must be affordable. Gammon emphasized the importance of creating workforce housing and ensuring affordability in the development process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dave Gammon highlighted the progress and challenges in achieving sustainable development goals in Charlotte County. The Live Local Act offers a promising solution to balance growth and preserve community charm while addressing the need for affordable housing.
About the Author
Karen Moore is a contributing partner for WGCU and the publisher of SWFL Business Today.
Copyright Information
Copyright 2023 WGCU
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
The article discusses economic recovery, growth, and the need to balance development with community charm. It also mentions the importance of affordable housing and infrastructure. These issues align with the SDGs mentioned above.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- SDG 8.1: Sustain per capita economic growth in accordance with national circumstances and, in particular, at least 7 percent gross domestic product growth per annum in the least developed countries.
- SDG 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums.
- SDG 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private and civil society partnerships, building on the experience and resourcing strategies of partnerships.
The article highlights the economic recovery in Charlotte County and the need for affordable housing. It also mentions a bill that aims to address the housing issue. These targets are relevant to the content discussed.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate
- Percentage of population with access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing
- Number of public-private partnerships established
The article mentions the economic recovery in Charlotte County, which can be measured through the GDP growth rate. The need for affordable housing implies a lack of access to such housing, which can be measured by the percentage of the population with access to it. The bill mentioned in the article represents a public-private partnership initiative.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators Table
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth | SDG 8.1: Sustain per capita economic growth in accordance with national circumstances and, in particular, at least 7 percent gross domestic product growth per annum in the least developed countries. | Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate |
| SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities | SDG 11.1: By 2030, ensure access for all to adequate, safe and affordable housing and basic services and upgrade slums. | Percentage of population with access to adequate, safe, and affordable housing |
| SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals | SDG 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public, public-private and civil society partnerships, building on the experience and resourcing strategies of partnerships. | Number of public-private partnerships established |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: news.wgcu.org
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