Missouri’s Challenges and Opportunities
Missouri has a strong and proud history of overcoming its challenges and advancing its opportunities. This has led to economic growth and a better quality of life for future generations. However, we once again find ourselves at a crossroad as pivotal decisions need addressed. In order to ensure a bright future for our state, we must be willing to confront the unique and varying challenges faced by our communities.
In many areas of our state, declining population continues to create tremendous challenges as we work to fuel and grow regional economic opportunities. Because of these declines, many of our towns struggle to find the financial resources necessary to upgrade their antiquated public infrastructure while other communities are growing so fast that they cannot expand quick enough to meet the demands for services from their new residents. As a result, they find themselves struggling to maintain the “small town feel” and quality of life that draw people to their communities.
Fortunately, the qualities that make Missouri a great place to live are the same qualities necessary to overcome these challenges. When a problem arises within a community, we come together and work to improve the lives of those around us. Increasingly, we have come to view our challenges as regional issues which often produces a collaborative solution.
Job creation and economic growth continue to be the most pressing concerns throughout our state. If we are going to grow our economy, we must empower entrepreneurs, encourage innovation and invite risk takers into our communities. These new businesses will develop, emerge and fuel our economies. The world around us is changing, and we will need to change in order to be competitive in the economic opportunities of the future. We have a tremendous task in front of us to ensure future generations have the same chance to succeed and the same great quality of life we enjoy today. I believe Missouri’s greatest asset is its people, and by working together towards common goals, we can improve each of our communities and ensure a bright future for all Missouri’s citizens.
As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns. The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 422, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.
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