Op-Ed: Is the Economic Development Commission only about economics?

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     Economics- the branch of knowledge associated with the production, consumption, and transfer of wealth. I’d believed for a greater portion of my life that economics was the study of all things money. The market, trading, “grown-up words” I’d never be able to fathom. When I chose to observe the Economic Development Commission, I assumed it would be about money. How much money it cost to open a restaurant, how much money it cost to sustain in a mostly-rural town. The median income, state of loans at the local banks. Everything cold, hard, cash. It wasn’t.

     The Economic Development Commission is about so much more than its name. It deals with the allocation of township resources- whether that be budget or restaurants or small businesses. It does the legwork for so many projects in town- working in conjunction with other committees and associations to create well-reputed events (including the town-adored Funfest). The Economic Development Commission strives to create a diverse, developed Montgomery- by literally economically developing the township and its resources. By adequately allocating township resources to ways they see fit, the township becomes an ideal place to live due to the work of the EDC and other township committees. 

     Despite these unprecedented times, the EDC has managed to work on projects involving agritourism, or the usage of farmland and natural resources for commercial purposes and development. Montgomery’s expansive farmlands and scintillating rural scenes are crucial in maintaining a proper economic balance. In addition, the EDC hopes to increase business development in town- creating new, small businesses that will keep the town’s local charm thriving. The EDC recognizes that people may just be too afraid of starting a business, which fostered thought for a “business guide in Montgomery”. 

     The beauty of the EDC is that it is completely volunteer-run. Each person on the board devotes their own time into making a change in their community- including former member and current Montgomery Mayor Devra Keenan. I hadn’t truly realized how much members of a local community could have made a difference until I’d been given the privilege to view an EDC meeting. Each idea was brought with careful consideration for the Montgomery residents- how would it impact their life, what the EDC could do for them. An ubiquitous sense of community and togetherness enveloped every conference call and Zoom meeting- a truly special and memorable aspect. 

     Community outreach is brought up at every EDC meeting- the importance of connecting Montgomery as a group of people is more needed than ever. Interacting with Montgomery residents- whether that be through social media platforms or attendance at Zoom calls is crucial. While there is no current EDC Instagram page or TikTok account, attending the EDC meetings, usually on the 4th Tuesday of every month, is a start. Informing oneself about local activities and projects in the EDC is the first step in knowing what truly occurs every step of the way. The Economic Development Commission is hopeful in opening future outlets for community members to express their thoughts and be informed about local happenings, but can be contacted as of right now through their email. 

     Personally, I feel as though engagement is low when there are no avenues to express interest in a particular subject. As passion grows, as does the need to connect with like-minded people and speak holistically on a certain topic. The youth influence on local government is felt extensively- Montgomery youth are ardent supporters of revolutionary movements and fervent believers in change. Involvement stems from the bottom up- attending meetings is a starting point. Gaining understanding through physical presence for crucial conversations is key in developing comprehensive knowledge of a situation. Bottom line: attend the meetings! Information can be found on the township website under “Municipal Meetings”. 

     Through the EDC, I’ve learned the importance of involvement in local government- these people, normal citizens, volunteer their time to make the community a better place. The members of the EDC themselves are paragons of fortitude and demonstrate resilience, integrity, and fortitude. I have had immense privilege to work with them, and am beyond gratified for the experience I’ve had. Economic development is not about numbers and spreadsheets and medians, incomes, or financial literacy, but is a beacon of representation for the people. The EDC is the backbone of Montgomery society- run by the people, for the people.