by Paul Bean
Warning: this might make you angry if it applies to you.
Mindset.
It is why business fail. It is why we fail to meet housing demands. It is why no one wants to do nor build a business here.
And most important (to me) it is why young people are leaving in droves.
What exactly am I talking about? Well it is much more then your typical “NIMBYism.” (For those of you who don’t know, that means “not in my back yard).”
This has nothing to do with Republicans or Democrats because it transcends political attitudes. Instead there is a general attitude that everything new or exciting is bad and will ruin “the way we always’ done it….”
Examples? here:
God forbid someone presents a new idea, or brings new energy to a business or workplace.
God forbid we build a housing complex to meet the demands of the housing crisis.
An economy that welcomes new ideas, new business, new people, and doesn’t only cater to the wealthy and old?
Blasphemy! Absolutely not in my back yard!
I’m not necessarily coming at anyone in the Legislature. Let’s be honest. We elected them.
Every single Vermonter is responsible for this mindset change. Or Vermont will simply continue the same direction.
A relic in time. An “old timey quaint exhibit” for retirees, and tourists. Continually making it difficult for any business to produce anything.
We should welcoming new ideas. New businesses, new people.
I love Vermont for what it is as much as anyone. I don’t want to see this place turn into another strip mall paradise.
But, I’d argue that it’s gotten worse since “the old days” we all wish to be in.
We all think we’re just hiding in the hills up here, but it’s time to come down to reality.
Growth does not have to mean “bad.” What happens when growth is actively suppressed? Stagnation. Economic Depression. Misery.
It’s time for an attitude change, Vermont. Just some thoughts of a failed candidate 2022.
The candidate is a Northfield native who ran for the Vermont Senate in 2022, finishing fourth in a three seat district, and first among the three Republican candidates.