www.Kiplinger.com recently published an article about the best cities to live in for 2008. What was most interesting about this was the simple criteria by which they use to judge and come up with their list. They pointed out 3 key ingredients that are necessary for the formula to create the best city: 1. Population growth, 2. Income growth, and 3. Job growth especially for the creative class-workers. According to Stolarick, of the Martin Prosperity Institute, an increase in the creative class – scientists, engineers, educators, writers, artists, entertainers and others – will inject both economic and cultural vitality into a city and help make it a vibrant place to live. So then the key question is; how do we attract and keep the creative class-workers to cities and communities in WV?

The answer lies within the creation of the “new economy”. We can get towns and cities in the Mountain State to encourage and show support for technological innovations and entrepreneurialism. I propose creating a place that supports diversity infused with cultural and entertaining amenities. An environment that is constantly learning and improving then we will be well on our way to making it to the 10 best places to live!

-Jodi-Ann-

Link to the full article: http://www.kiplinger.com/magazine/archives/2008/07/ranking-the-2008-best-cities.html