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Economic development candidates urge focus on talent pipeline and tech clusters
Summary
Applicants for the economic development committee highlighted the city's existing tech assets and said attracting firms requires growing a local talent pool and smoothing procedural barriers.
Several applicants for the city's economic development committee urged the council to prioritize talent and coordinated action to attract technology firms. Jason (speaker 13), who works in venture capital and mentors startups, told the council: "I think talent pool is is the biggest 1, honestly." He cited the city's existing assets, including the gallium-nitride innovation work, UVM and GlobalFoundries, and said a focused regional strategy could build a reputation to attract companies.
Another candidate with international development experience suggested exploring foreign-trade-zone tools and reducing procedural roadblocks that can deter investors. Councilors asked applicants how they would connect to local businesses and schools; applicants suggested internships, partnerships with technical centers and clearer, staff-supported pathways for engagement.
