Mayor Nutter Stresses Importance Of Regional Cooperation At Bucks County Conference

By Brad Segall

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter delivered an upbeat message about the importance of regional cooperation to more than 100 business and government leaders in Bucks County this week.

The mayor says the region is at a crossroads and it must continue to work together to grow its economy and attract 21st century jobs which include sustainable energy and clean technology positions. He says the impact is substantial. Nutter says southeastern Pennsylvania is responsible for nearly half of the state's economy.

"That is significant - that five counties out of 67 would represent 40 percent of the economy. We have a lot of people here, a lot of industry, a lot of programs, a lot of services and a lot of people working."

His biggest concern: proposed state budget cuts to social service agencies and assistance programs that could have a devastating effect on the quality of life. He says it's not prudent business to cut a dollar today that will cost you two dollars down the road. Nutter spoke to the Central Bucks Chamber of Commerce.