The Path ...

One only need look at a map to recognize the potential value of real estate in Mifflin County. One hour from Harrisburg; one-half hour from State College, and a major 4 lane highway linking Lewistown with both cities. Why then doesn’t business want to relocate here? Why does Mifflin County continue to decline?

Let’s first look at the community college, or rather, the lack of a community college. Mifflin County received a grant 3 years ago to lay the groundwork for a community college. 3 years later; no community college. Why? Because community government and local school districts do not want to contribute their fair share. The formula goes like this: state government pays a third, the student pays a third, and the community pays a third.

Investing in a community college is an investment in infrastructure. A community college creates jobs and provides youth an inexpensive college education. Local students benefit and parents benefit. The students attending the college spend their time not in class in the downtown area at local restaurants and stores. In other words, it gives the local economy a boost.

Let’s now turn our focus to the school district. Mifflin County School District is building a new high school. A shiny new building is a plus for industries considering relocating here. However, when one looks beyond the walls, he finds a system vastly under-funded, not adequately preparing students for higher education or the work force.

If you think that industry doesn’t look into the educational system, think again. Executives of any company make the decisions. They also have children. If they think their children will not get a good education, they won’t relocate their company here.

If you don’t believe me, then ask yourself why State College has a booming economy. Of course, having a university there helps. But remember, the university pays no local taxes and taxes there are significantly higher than they are in Mifflin County.

Wouldn’t it make sense for a company to relocate here as opposed to State College because of the low taxes? After all, State College is only a half-hour away. Apparently not, because time and time again businesses have set up shop in State College, even though they would pay higher taxes. Drive through Lewistown sometime and look around. If you were an out-of-towner, would you want to move here?

Local officials in Mifflin County believe in addition by subtraction. Keep taxes low; cut services, programs; and don’t invest in infrastructure. Then, maybe we will attract business to the community.

It hasn’t worked for so far. So why do they keep on doing the same thing and expect a different result?