Our Florida economy is changing. We were centered on tourism, agriculture, and construction. We are now leaning towards engineering, science, and competition in the work force.  In a recent article from the Florida Chamber of Commerce Floridians are concerned with unemployment at almost 11 percent. There have been 600,000 jobs lost since the end of 2007. One in five homes in Florida are facing foreclosure. Yes–Florida is changing!! 

Florida’s migration numbers are also changing. Now only 15 to 16 percent of the population moving here is older than 65. About 44 percent of those coming to Florida are younger than 35. They are looking for employment and a more laid back lifestyle.

While tourism, construction, and agriculture remain important components in our state economy, we need to be developing training programs and industries and plan on the future. With high speed Internet this can be done anywhere. Citrus County needs to embrase this change as an opportunity. The local Chamber of Commerce, the Economic Devolpment Council and our county goverment need to show the way for a more diversified economy. This needs to infiltrate into our schools and into what we teach our children.

For those who don’t like change or want change-remember we will continue to develop and protect the natural beauty that most of us moved here for. But, our younger residents need to be able to work here as well.