Dear Editor,

I was quite dismayed to read the high-tech trends article from earlier this month regarding new opportunities with remote working (“Five tech business trends to watch in 2021,” Dec. 31, 2020). A source in the article suggested that with this new flexibility, tech companies could establish their headquarters in the region and “CEOs, CFOs who can afford to be here, will be here and those who can’t, will be somewhere else.”

Our community will be strengthened by the diversity of residents. We cannot accept the reality as it stands that this region is unaffordable for young professionals or lower income families. We must do more to support growth that will allow companies to thrive in the region and create employment opportunities for employees of all levels. In turn, we must support efforts to help make this region more affordable.

For companies that are already here, there is more we can consider that the trend of remote work can bring. Specifically, what if it was now possible to tap a more diverse workforce with unique skills? Maybe this could be a way to reach new talent, and then create pathways to welcome those individuals to join us in our beautiful region.

Sincerely,

Anna Steffens