Bad start to year for Brighton economic development - Perspective Jan. 18, 2012

     It’s safe to say 2012 couldn’t have gotten off to a poorer start if you follow the economic development interests of Brighton.
    First came word that Vestas Wind Systems is planning restructuring and substantial layoffs worldwide. This first round of cuts don’t appear to have a huge impact on Brighton and seem to hit Vestas’ European factories harder. However, Vestas’ warning that more cuts could come if Congress doesn’t extend tax breaks for renewable energy firms should be of even greater concern.
    Brighton has obviously staked a lot in Vestas’ presence in our community and the residual economic impact that their production here would
generate.
    It’s far too early to question whether Vestas will be able to live up to the enormous expectations placed on it for job creation and additional economic growth in our community. However, it’s not too early to marvel at the enormous market volatility that Vestas encounters on a regular basis. It seems like good news (new orders) is routinely tempered by bleaker economic forecasts for the company. One could argue that this is indicative of any manufacturing company aiming to stay upright in this shattered world economy.
    It is an important reminder for Brighton to continue to embrace Vestas’ economic potential for our community but also diversify our economic development interests.
    That’s the second bit of bad news with economoic development leader Ray Gonzales leaving the city next month.
    We applaud Gonzales for the strong foundation he has put in place for Brighton to continue to grow. It will be up to city leaders to find someone equally adept at making sure Brighton is a player in bringing primary employers to this community and also making sure we’re not putting all our 
proverbial economic eggs in one basket.