In response to a question about the governor’s role in job development, Mayor McCrory indicated the governor’s primary responsibility in job development is to travel the US and abroad to recruit companies to establish operations in North Carolina..

“In my view, that’s not where we want the governor’s focus,” said Justice Orr. “Certainly we need an active public relations and recruiting campaign but the governor must first be concerned with policies that will help North Carolina businesses to grow. If we have an education system that produces a world class work force, solid infrastructure, and a low tax and regulatory burden, all businesses can thrive here. That is where my priority as governor will be.”

Mayor McCrory neglected to shed light on exactly how the personal relationships he expects to build will compel companies to relocate here, which leaves one wondering if he will advocate for the targeted tax breaks and cash grants similar to those used by the current administration.

“Pat will need to let the voters know where he stands on targeted tax breaks for these large corporations,” Orr said, adding that “I’ve called on all the candidates for governor to join me in a pledge that North Carolina will no longer play the corporate incentives game and that we will no longer shift the tax burden to our people and small businesses. I look forward to hearing what Pat’s position is.”

The Orr Campaign released a detailed proposal on incentives reform last October. Please see www.orr2008.com to review Justice Orr’s position on this issue.