VEDP CEO tours Southside, emphasizes need for more aggressive business recruitment

DANVILLE (WSLS 10) - One of the state's top economic leaders is sharing his thoughts on how to help Southside participate in future economic growth across the state.

Virginia Economic Development Partnership's new CEO Stephen Moret has been in Southside for the past two days meeting leaders and touring businesses.

A major focus was on how education is preparing students for the workforce.

Moret said he believes the area needs to be more aggressive when it comes to recruiting businesses because rural America is shrinking.

"Part of what I take away from that is there are not enough economic development opportunities to ensure that rural America grows. So, for us to be successful here in Southern Virginia, we've got to be a lot more aggressive," explained Moret.

He also says taxes and regulations need to be looked at because what may work well for Richmond and Northern Virginia may actually be harmful to rural areas like Southside.