By SAM HATCHER
Wilson County is the second wealthiest county in Tennessee. It is strategically located near the state capitol, has an incomparable network of major transportation thoroughfares, maintains a local airport that is capable of servicing corporate jet air traffic, is only minutes from Nashville’s International Airport and provides for its residents a lifestyle second to none.

And furthermore, Wilson County is the only county in Middle Tennessee outside of Davidson County that is the home to a four-year private, independent university, Cumberland University.

Other accolades include Wilson being one of the state’s fastest growing counties, its unemployment rate is listed among the lowest across Tennessee and its commitment to education in both the public and private sectors is outstanding.

With Nashville being just down the road a piece we’re close to professional sports, certain cultural venues like the Tennessee Performing Arts Center and the Nashville Symphony, and the many other offerings and advantages of a big city.

We are afforded excellent health care through a community of well recognized physicians, surgeons and medical specialists who practice their talents at a credible and reputable hospital, University Medical Center.

So, what’s the point? The time has come for local government leaders to focus on bringing a white collar industry to Wilson County.

We’re ready now for this although it hasn’t been too many years ago that we could make this claim.

The many assets we have in Wilson County have clear value. Wilson County for all the right reasons is the right place to be and the time to proclaim these opportunities is now.

We read too often about another corporate headquarters finding its way to Brentwood or Franklin in Williamson County and for what reason?

Home prices in Williamson County are higher, the commute to Nashville or to the Nashville airport from Williamson County is much more complicated and the cost of living in Williamson County is far more expensive than here.

We have the property, the infrastructure and for sure the location to be an attractive place for a corporate headquarters or major white collar industry.

We can be competitive in this arena if we put our game pants on.

Now is the time. Let’s do it.