The county’s geographic positioning strengthens its logistics advantage. “Because of our proximity— we’re one day’s drive to 80% of the U.S. population— we are a logistics hotbed. That’s what makes CDL licensure such a valuable credential to have,” Wilson notes. This strategic location has attracted major distribution operations and created steady demand for qualified drivers across various service models. Franklin County’s approach reflects broader economic development principles that connect workforce training directly to regional strengths.The programs accommodate different lifestyle preferences within the transportation sector. “These opportunities can be over-the-road if you want to travel the country, regional if that fits your lifestyle better, or local if you want to be home every night with your family,” Wilson adds. SUPPORTING THE ARTS FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT THROUGH CULTURE Franklin County has established a sustainable approach to arts funding that positions cultural programming as an economic driver rather than simply a quality-of-life enhancement. “We have a tradition of supporting art and public spaces programming. We’ve provided funding to the arts via general funds in a modest amount, but it’s been meaningful,” Wilson says. The county has moved beyond viewing arts funding as merely discretionary spending, instead incorporating it into its economic development framework. Youth engagement represents a key component of the county’s arts strategy, creating pipelines for future creative professionals. “We’ve had awardwinning programs such as the transit art program for youth. We’ve provided various grants through the Greater Columbus Arts Council to enable artists to become entrepreneurs and sell their products,” Wilson explains. These initiatives address both workforce development and small business growth within the creative sector. What distinguishes Franklin County’s approach is the establishment of dedicated funding mechanisms that insulate arts programs from budget fluctuations. “One of the things that strengthens the arts is that leadership here secured an admissions fee on cultural 62 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 05
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