Getting them back

Submitted by
Ken Boshcoff M.P.

When we examine the critical issues we face we can list them by individual industry and can identify the gaps and how to solve them. However the most demoralizing symptom we face is depopulation or out-migration.
All that I have written about is how to overcome this major axe in our ceiling. Realistically we must first realize that we are not alone. There has been a worldwide trend for several decades of movements from smaller to larger centres. Some numbers suggest that 85% of communities of the world are losing populations to the bigger metropolitan areas.
We train our young people early to travel. We encourage them to see the world. We are pleased to hear of their experiences. We want them back! For a wide range of reasons our youth will leave the nest to seek their personal adventures. This we have to accept as inevitable but not irreversible.
The good news is by the time they hit 28 or so they realize the values of their hometown. That is when they are ready to settle down and begin serious family or career development. They know that their best friends were made at home. They remember the happiness, security and cleanliness of their hometown. They would truly like to return.
In exactly the same fashion those who have lived their lives elsewhere know what the Northwest can offer for retirement. With the internet they can stay connected. With the huge savings they can accumulate in selling a “big city” house to purchase a home around these parts their future can be quite comfortable.
For young people to seek learning experiences is something we accept and understand. Getting them back should drive most elected representatives to act. By effective marketing for retirees we can honestly invite people for lifestyle improvements away from crime, population, congestion, stress, gridlock and pollution.
A regional summit of our leaders to define our priorities is long overdue. We have all identified the problems and many reasonable solutions have been offered.
We need a united front to strongly make our case. Do you agree?