Commenter:
Virginia Economic Developers Association
VEDA's Position on Stormwater Regs
The Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA) joins organizations such as the Virginia Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Richmond Association of Commercial Real Estate in expressing strong reservations and concerns about the proposed modifications to the state's stormwater management regulations. The Commonwealth's reputation as a great place to do business relies on a number of factors - with a reasonable, predictable, and affordable regulatory climate being among them. We believe the proposed changes could adversely impact the ability to develop commercial and industrial properties in a timely and cost-effective manner, thus harming the state's competitiveness and our ability to help promote job creation.
The goal of economic development is to increase the tax base and provide better jobs, thus enhancing the well-being and prosperity of Virginia’s citizens. It is vital that we do everything possible to support Virginia’s economic development efforts and create new opportunities for our citizens. In order to do accomplish this goal, it is necessary to create and maintain the most competitive product (sites, buildings, business climate, and infrastructure) to attract new business and to promote expansion of existing businesses. Virginia’s regulatory climate is a crucial component to ensuring competitiveness and prosperity.
Policy and regulatory choices made by government entities drive the business climate that determines the attractiveness of a particular locality to business prospects. A pro-business climate, fostered by all levels of government, is essential to continued success in promoting economic prosperity, broadening the tax base and enhancing the Commonwealth’s economic stability and quality of life.
VEDA urges you to continue a more thorough study of the regulations in partnership with business groups across the Commonwealth to develop water quality standards that preserve Virginia’s ability to compete nationally and globally.
