Governor Delivers Upbeat Address at Economic Summit

Mar 20, 2008 by Jeff Robinson

Despite Declining Job Growth in Utah

(KCPW News) Speaking to an audience of hundreds of business leaders, economy experts and politicians at his annual statewide economic summit this afternoon, Governor Jon Huntsman echoed the same upbeat sentiment expressed in his state of the state address a few months ago -- despite declining job growth in Utah. The governor praised the state's quality of life for drawing companies like ATK Ammunition and Barnes Aerospace.

"When you can do business anywhere, all of a sudden, quality of life and livability become the most important aspect of economic development," he said. "We have cornered the market on livability and quality of life, and this is one of the reasons that we are doing well."

The governor also announced that Disney Interactive Studios has decided to accept the state's tax incentive offer by adding 500 jobs here, after acquiring Salt Lake City based Avalanche Software in 2005.

Governor Huntsman praised many actions taken by the legislature this year, challenging anyone to find a state that has increased teacher salaries more in recent years. But he acknowledged that educational opportunities for some children are lacking.

"We don't have enough in the way of opportunities for kids, all of whom enter the classroom and learn a little bit differently," he said. "We just haven't gotten that one right, and we need to sharpen our pencils on that."

The governor also said the declining value of the U.S. dollar has had one good impact on Utah, by allowing more foreign visitors to spend their money vacationing in Utah ski resorts. Today's summit was held at the Grand America hotel.

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