Michigan's Business Strategy Based On Smart Growth

Against a backdrop of walloping state budget deficits and job losses, one of Governor Jennifer M. Granholm's key advisors explained her new strategy for returning the state to prosperity. David Hollister, the director of the state's new Department of Labor and Economic Development, told 175 farmers, executives, civic leaders, and state officials at the Seeds of Prosperity conference that rebuilding cities, marketing the state's skilled workforce as a competitive advantage, encouraging more entrepreneurial activities, and conserving Michigan's countryside and natural beauty are central to the new approach. His address sounded many of the themes essential to Smart Growth.