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Recently I spoke with Kitsap County Commissioner Chair, Jan Angel, about business development opportunities in Kitsap. In her capacity she is charged with upholding the County’s Visions. One of the Visions listed on the County’s website is a “thriving local economy.” It states, “a well-educated workforce and strategic investment in county infrastructure prompt businesses to expand or locate in Kitsap County, creating well-paying jobs and enhancing our quality of life.“
Miles: “You have always been a proponent of business and understand that successful companies directly impact the local economy. Considering that, NASCAR has been on the minds of Kitsap residents for over a year. Kitsap residents continue to debate whether building a racecar track in our county bodes well for us — economically, environmentally and in the overall quality of our lives. If a racetrack is built in South Kitsap, what impact do you see this having on existing businesses, or new business opportunities? “
Angel: “I believe it would be a stimulus for growth of existing businesses and new business. Tourists with disposable income are attracted to racing, and may come back later for other reasons. The facility is perfect for other events throughout the year, like vintage vehicle shows or sporting goods and trade shows that draw in neighboring communities. Businesses that support these activities and tourism will find opportunities, and in turn feed our economy.”
Miles: “What types of businesses are missing from our region today that would be important for the track once it is up and running?”
Angel: “We need hotels, restaurants and RV parks. We already have great golfing venues, and could improve on popular water sports activities. Creating a recreational corridor in the track area complete with a waterslide park and entertainment makes the site even more attractive.”
Miles: “Switching to another area of our County, how do you see recent developments in the Olhava Project, outside of Poulsbo, impacting businesses?”
Angel: “I hope the big box stores will not hurt the specialized businesses. They have different types of inventories. We need both. Tourists are attracted to the small specialty businesses, while chain or big box stores are driven by local consumers.”
Miles: “How does shopping on the Internet impact our County?”
Angel: “The County is dependent on our tax base for funding. Internet purchases can send tax dollars to other counties and states. If our tax base is lowered, then we have difficulty maintaining and improving our infrastructure. For example, Highways 16 and 3 are essential for local transportation, freight mobility and commerce. Without them in good working condition, our economy is negatively impacted. Buying locally is smart. It helps all of us.”
Buying locally is important which is easier to do when businesses here meet our needs. If you are expanding your business or interested in starting one locally, contact the KBAC for free counseling services.
(Editor’s Note: For KBAC counseling services contact Rand Riedrich at 360-307-4220, rriedrich@oc.ctc.edu. Wendy Miles, Director of Customized Training and Military Education at Olympic College, oversees the operation of the Kitsap Business Assistance Center (KBAC). For partnership opportunities, contact her at 360-475-7786.) | 
