Tap Into Erie looks to trade on region's abundant water

Erie wants to use its most abundant resource to attract companies, create jobs

By JIM MARTIN
jim.martin@timesnews.com

Lake Erie is a giant game changer -- capable of luring tourists to its sunny shores or burying us with lake-effect snow.

Now, some wonder if it might prove to be a magnet that could bring jobs to the region.

The Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership is betting on it with Tap Into Erie, a new initiative that's looking for ways to use the region's abundant water supply to attract companies that depend on water.

The idea grew out of a need for the region to set itself apart, said Jake Rouch, vice president of economic development for the chamber.

Rouch, whose group continues to focus the majority of its budget and time on business retention, said he recognized that the region's budget for business attraction didn't stack up against other communities that would be competing for the same jobs.

Every town in the country, it seems, has a slick brochure and the promise of a good life and able workers. And most of those places stand ready to serve up a cocktail of tax breaks and low-interest loans.

A study by a local consultant confirmed what some might have expected. Erie is close to major population centers and has top-notch health care and abundant higher education opportunities.

But so did a lot of other places.

Water -- enough to satisfy the most demanding user -- was what made Erie unique. More here.

JIM MARTIN can be reached at 870-1668 or by e-mail.