The Moab Business Alliance met with communitiy leaders to generate ideas and comment on ten draft initiatives.
A few themes emerged: people care a great deal about Moab’s future and we are at a critical junction in Moab’s story. Moab will never become an Aspen or Telluride, but if we do nothing, we face major issues such as inflated housing prices, higher property taxes, and the loss of part of our community. Moab will become less diverse, more sprawl will occur, and traffic congestion will increase.
Some ideas for Moab’s the future were also discussed: keeping people with diverse incomes in Moab, the need for more low impact small businesses, better utilizing Moab’s professional and under employed workforce, the need for affordable housing, the need to make a living wage, and more comprehensive transportation planning.
However, there is some duplication of effort, a few turf battles, and sometimes a lack of information sharing. These factors may be creating some gridlock.
We think the Moab Business Alliance can play a role as a facilitator. To further explore these critical issues, develop more cooperation between existing groups, and create a more comprehensive strategy for Moab, we have a suggestion. The Business Alliance is in a position to work with Jay Ogilvy, co-founder of the Global Business Network. Jay has offered to help us conduct a “scenario thinking” event for Moab. This is an opportunity to map out big, practical ideas for Moab’s future.
As the Mayor Sakrison said, Moab is at a critical point and we need to make some important decisions about our future.
The draft initiatives are listed below. The Moab Business Alliance is considering each of them and is looking for comments and support.
Summary of Moab Business Alliance Draft Initiatives
"What to do" Initiatives
"How to do it" Initiatives
The Moab Business Alliance Mission:
- Protects, respects, and cares for our human and natural resources
- Provides opportunity for emerging and existing businesses to have a voice in creating a sustainable economic future for our community
- Promotes adaptability and agility of our economy
We exist to create a local business environment that embraces a passion for learning and a healthy, collaborative approach to leadership.
