In an editorial cheer Oct. 26, the Eagle suggested the time may have arrived for a review and update of a unified regional strategy for community and economic development in Butler County. I agree. A plan of this sort is essential to our economic future and a sustainable expansion of business, manufacturing and employment opportunities.

In every state, including Pennsylvania, the regions that are capitalizing on community and economic development opportunities are those where leaders at every level of government come together to develop a unified plan. State and federal appropriators respond well when requests from a region are unified and make good economic sense. In regions where counties and municipalities are not in agreement, appropriators find it very difficult to direct funding.

A unified community and economic development plan would aid Butler County in capitalizing on two emerging economic strengths: the potential for the growth of existing and new high-tech corridors; and shale gas drilling and energy development.

Butler County has a great workforce of men and women who know how to get the job done. Butler County Community College, the Regional Learning Alliance and our great schools guarantee the emerging workforce here will be just as good and up to the task whether it’s energy production, logistics and transportation or high tech.

It is my understanding that our local CDC and others have been working on a renewed approach to a unified regional plan for some time. This is good news for Butler County.

Focused and dedicated leadership is critical and must come from private and public partnership. The county commissioners should be the leading public officials driving that partnership to ensure there is a proactive and sustainable unified plan for community and economic development in Butler County.