Congratulations, North Carolina. We are one of the best places in the country to do business.
In a CNBC special report released this month, North Carolina was ranked fourth behind Texas, Utah and Virginia. We have a strong workforce, are business friendly and support technology and new ideas.
The report listed the state in the bottom half of the “quality of life” category.
Clearly, the researchers did not spend enough time in beautiful Beaufort County.
When it comes to the quality of life on the Pamlico, things are only getting better.
The criteria for “quality of life” included local attractions; health care; the crime rate; and air and water quality.
Thanks, in part, to active chambers of commerce, there have been a number of successful events in the county. And these events are attracting more than just the locals.
Just last week, Washington entertained visitors from across the state at its relatively new Independence Day events.
Belhaven attracted hundreds to its parade and hundreds of people withstood scorching temperatures to support the Pantego Volunteer Fire Department at its annual mud run.
But, there is always room for improvement.
With the Pamlico River and a state park in our back yard, we need to find more ways to promote ecotourism.
We need to promote retraining programs for our displaced workforce.
We also need to do more to attract a diverse industry. The area could use more service businesses. And small businesses could use less red tape.