Albemarle County, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – As Albemarle County continues refining its AC44 comprehensive plan, discussions around economic development have taken center stage. The Planning Commission recently examined a draft chapter on creating a “thriving economy,” focusing on business growth and job opportunities. Neil Williamson, President and CEO of the Free Enterprise Forum joined WINA Morning News and emphasized that economic development isn’t just about attracting large companies, but also about supporting existing businesses. “It’s about jobs, about where our kids are going to work and live, and how it fits,” Williamson stated. However, debates arose over workforce housing, with some commissioners advocating for public-private partnerships, while Williamson suggested that reducing government restrictions could better facilitate growth. 

A significant point of contention remains Albemarle County’s restrictive growth policies, which limit economic and residential development to just 5% of the county’s land. Williamson argued that expanding the designated growth area by even 2% could improve economic opportunities. “We continue to see problems with Albemarle County’s growth management policy impacting the ability to deliver a thriving economy and deliver jobs,” he said. When asked why there might be resistance to such changes, Williamson offered a blunt response: “Potential new residents don’t vote,” suggesting that political considerations may be influencing the county’s stance on development. 

The discussion also highlighted challenges in attracting new businesses due to a lack of ready-to-develop commercial sites. Williamson explained the distinction between Tier 4 and Tier 5 commercial sites, noting that Albemarle County currently has only one Tier 4 site available, which is located in the North Fork Research Park. He suggested that the county’s Economic Development Department should work with private property owners to prepare more land for commercial use. “We need to have jobs continuing to come,” Williamson stated, emphasizing the importance of economic growth in ensuring long-term prosperity for the region. 

Listen to the full conversation here: