Southern Ocean County Business Leaders Assemble

The Holiday Inn of Stafford Township was all abuzz yesterday afternoon. It was the latest meeting of the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce and about a hundred business leaders from Waretown down to Tuckerton and all points in between, attended. The keynote speaker was direct from Trenton - Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno.

While the economy continues to slowly recover, there have been positive signs of growth in many areas down in the southern portion of the county. Many businesses including tourism, real estate, small industrial services and mom and pop stores are seeing gains in the first quarter of the year. That can be attributed to people wanting to spend more and unemployment numbers dropping slightly. There's still a lot of work to be done but all signs are pointing to positives on the bottom line.

A cabinetmaker from Stafford tells us "yeah, this year has been great so far. I can honestly say it's the best since 2005. The numbers are good and things are looking up. Lets hope it continues." Other business owners including a real estate agent tell us "we have been doing great since last September. It's a buyer's market. Homes are going. It's hard for sellers now competing with foreclosures and short sales but things will improve. It didn't fall right away so giving it time is important."

But not everyone sees it as rosy posy. The Mayor of Eagleswood Debra Rivas tells us "while there has been improvement, the fees and prices to stay in business have gotten out of hand. I hear from business owners all the time that their number one complaint is the red tape and permit fees. It's getting tougher for them to keep the doors open - especially the small stores and restaurants."

Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno gave out her cellphone number to the crowd, something she did last year when I attended a meeting at Six Flags Great Adventure with business owners in the Northern Ocean County area. She says "you can call me at any time. WOBM will be bleeping that because there are a lot of people who would love to use it at night. But seriously, if you have a problem or need help, call me. That's why you are paying me in Trenton."

Tourism sectors in Southern Ocean County are fearful that high gas prices will drive people away this season. One business owner tells us "we have to rebrand ourselves down here. It's so important. We aren't the MTV crowd and the rowdy ones on the boardwalk. This is small, old time heritage communities with something to offer for everyone. Spread the message!"