Columbia is ripe for substantial economic development and job creation. Steve Benjamin’s top priority as mayor will be leveraging the assets – both natural and manmade – of South Carolina’s capital city to create new, well-paying jobs.
 

The city’s assets are plentiful. The convergence of our Saluda, Broad, and Congaree Rivers offers a bounty of natural and recreational resources. The intersection of three major Interstates provides valuable infrastructure for business. As home to many colleges and universities, Columbia enjoys a wide variety of educational experience among its citizens, a talented labor pool, and a foundation for creativity and innovation. Additionally, as the seat of South Carolina’s state government, the base of Richland’s County government, and home to Fort Jackson – a three billion dollar a year operation – Columbia has nearly limitless potential for economic development.

We must begin to use these assets as a foundation for our economic renewal.  While some believe that Columbia has become a national symbol for economic hardship and tough times, Steve believes that with bold, new leadership and a fresh start, we can energize our local economy, stimulate business development and create great jobs in our city.

Steve also recognizes the importance of partnering with Columbia’s neighbors to bring economic growth and opportunity to the Midlands as a whole – because growth in Irmo or Cayce or West Columbia results in growth for Columbia. As mayor, Steve will work with adjacent communities to create a regional plan that pools our resources, increases our production, and offers even greater appeal to industries and entities looking to set up shop in an area with so much promise.
 

And not only is Steve committed to leveraging Columbia’s assets to attract industries, but he will also foster a climate supportive of small business innovation – the backbone of our economy. 

Do you have ideas about how to improve the economy in Columbia and create jobs?  Share your suggestions with Steve here.