The Real Issue with Economic Incentives: "A guy from Microsoft told the New York Times, you know, we don't look at these incentive deals when we're looking to locate somewhere because they've got all these other considerations." - Marty Schladen

We welcome our guest, investigative journalist Marty Schladen from the Ohio Capital Journal, as we explore the origins, operations, and implications JobsOhio, this private corporation that plays a massive role in Ohio's economic landscape.

Harper CPA Plus

Key Highlights from the Episode:

• What is JobsOhio? Established in 2011, JobsOhio was championed by former governor John Kasich, intended to run more efficiently as a private corporation rather than a public entity. It manages the state's liquor franchise, and the financial relationship between public funds and private operations is examined.
• Economic Impact & Transparency: We discuss the lack of transparency in JobsOhio's operations. With the company not subjected to public audits, questions about its accountability arise. Controversially, Ohio Auditor at the time, Dave Yost (who is now running for governor), was denied the right to audit JobsOhio by the Ohio Supreme Court.
• JobsOhio's Claims of Success: The organization claims significant contributions to job creation in Ohio. However, an analysis reveals that 75% of the time, economic incentives provided by JobsOhio to businesses might not influence their decisions to operate in the state, potentially squandering resources that could have been managed publicly.
• Public Concerns: We spotlight the real-life implications for residents, particularly those whose lives are disrupted by major economic developments facilitated by JobsOhio, without having a say in these decisions. The conversation also reveals a unique perspective on how one-party rule might affect state politics, growth strategies, and transparency.
• Looking Forward: As listeners, you're encouraged to question what JobsOhio's role should be in future economic developments. Does their approach align with modern economic demands, or are they operating on an outdated model?

We loved having Marty Schladen on the show, and he certainly left us with more questions than answers. If you have any insights or thoughts, we'd be thrilled to hear from you!

For those interested in exploring more about Marty's work, check out the Ohio Capital Journal for in-depth investigative articles on various important topics.

Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.

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Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.

Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.

Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.

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