GCP President Joe Roman testifies in support of Jobs Ohio House Bill

Wednesday, February 09, 2011


Urges retention, growth of existing companies as top economic development priority

Columbus, Ohio—Greater Cleveland Partnership president and CEO Joe Roman testified today before the Senate Finance Committee in support of Jobs Ohio House Bill 1. In his comments he said that “…we need to change the way we approach economic development in Ohio.”

“We must go faster—to match the pace of inter-state and international competition. “We must achieve a higher return on our investment; our citizens demand it.”

He also said that retaining and growing companies and investments that are already in Ohio should be the top priority. “While not the sexiest part of economic development, keeping and growing existing Ohio companies will always stand a greater chance of success,” he said. “These companies are already deeply woven into the fabric of local communities, living patterns and other supply chains.

“We need to ensure that the allocation of any economic development budget is appropriately balanced to grow what we have. A good offense aimed at our current companies is the best defense against external competition.” 

Click here to read his full testimony.

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As an association of business members, the Greater Cleveland Partnership mobilizes private-sector leadership, expertise and resources to create jobs and leverage investment to improve the economic vitality of the region.

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