How will the new administration affect business in the Monadnock Region?
That question was at the crux of our planning for our quarterly Business Extra section, which you will find in today’s edition.
As the nation prepares to inaugurate its 45th president, we look back and review 2016, and also look ahead to 2017.
Our unemployment rate is low, and some of our manufacturing businesses are having trouble filling positions. But many of the experts we spoke with offered encouraging words about the year ahead.
An economics professor from Franklin Pierce University in Rindge presents a comprehensive overview of what the effect of a Trump Administration might have on the Monadnock Region’s employers, including manufacturing, assisted living and construction.
We look at the progress of solar and wind energy in our region, as well as the unemployment landscape and the real estate year in review.
We look at the state of healthcare in the region and the possibilities, both short and long term, of a possible repeal and replace of the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare.
In each area, we find places to be optimistic.
If the region can attract skilled workers, and create housing they can afford, there is much to be gained in 2017.
The natural beauty of our area remains one of its strongest selling points, and the need to attract tourist dollars is an important part of a successful 2017.
And if Trump comes through on his promise of more jobs, we can anticipate more spending on infrastructure, including renovating existing and building new roads, bridges, power grids, and communication infrastructure such as broadband.
An optimistic view, indeed.