Manufacturing Can Bring Back Dorchester's Business Community

In a recent Dorchester Times survey, nearly one-third of readers said local leaders must prioritize the revitalization of our Main Street business community.

Is that possible? Can it happen here?

We think it can. But we need to do it wisely, with long-term goals and a sustainable plan. No offense, but a DVD rental store isn't going to cut it. And we don't see an Apple store eyeing our empty storefronts.

Agriculture and manufacturing our the backbone industries of the Midwest and rural America. They made America the power she was in the 20th century -- and they will fuel our economy throughout the 21st century, as well.

Traditional manufacturing is the ultimate value-added activity.  Also, it plays into the strength of our area's workforce and labor skills.

For a local example of manufacturing's economic benefits, look to our own Tyser Welding and Repair, Dorchester's longest-standing multi-generational business.  Or look to Friend, home of Tuttle Inc., which produces conveyors, automation systems, piping, guards, catwalks, platforms, stairs and support structures.  Tuttle Manufacturing employs upwards around 49 area residents, we are told.  (That number would likely be higher if it were not for the Obama health care mandate that Senator Ben Nelson voted for, we are also told.  What a shame.)

We endorse manufacturing as an answer to rebuilding our business community for three reasons:

1.) Manufacturing allows for the most sustainable start-ups.  A one- or two-man shop can make it big, especially with the Dorchester area being home to large farms and the Farmers Cooperative.

2.) Manufacturing is extremely diverse.  There's no reason Dorchester's Main Street cannot support five or six manufacturing businesses, each specializing in a different niche. 

3.) Manufacturing jobs are good jobs.  They pay well, provide good benefits, and manufacturing workers are less likely to quit than workers in other private sector industries.  On average, hourly wages and salaries for manufacturing jobs were $29.75 an hour in 2010.  Total hourly compensation, which includes employer-provided benefits, was $38.27 for workers in manufacturing.

If Dorchester really wants to revitalize its business community and Main Street, we must encourage our young people, skilled laborers, and retirees to consider owning their own manufacturing businesses.  (For a list of very achievable manufacturing ideas, click here.)

Perhaps our village government could offer incentives, such as low rent or property tax breaks.  It's time to get the discussion going and produce a plan for action.