May 16, 2026 By Electra Janis 2 min read

For generations, Washington County has been built by hardworking people who believed in community, family, and opportunity. Our towns have long been places where young people could graduate, build a career, buy a home, and raise a family close to the people they love.

Today, that promise feels less certain.

Too many of our young professionals believe they have to leave Washington County to find opportunities elsewhere and that should concern all of us. Every time a recent graduate moves away, every time a young family decides they cannot afford to stay, and every time a small business owner closes their doors, we lose more than population. We lose energy, innovation, leadership, and future taxpayers who could help sustain and strengthen our communities for decades.

We cannot build a stronger future if the next generation believes their future lies somewhere else.

The good news is that Washington County already has many of the ingredients people are looking for: strong communities, quality schools, a skilled workforce, and access to major transportation corridors. We offer a quality of life that many larger regions cannot match.

But we must be intentional about turning those strengths into opportunity.

First, we need to prioritize job creation that aligns with today’s workforce. That means supporting industries with long-term growth potential and strengthening partnerships between local businesses, trade schools, colleges, and workforce programs. Our goal is simple: prepare residents for good-paying careers they can build right here at home.

Second, economic development must include small businesses. While attracting large employers matters, it is our local restaurants, shops, and service providers that give our communities identity and drive our economy. As county leaders, we must reduce unnecessary barriers, improve communication, and make it easier for entrepreneurs to succeed.

Finally, we must address housing affordability. Young adults beginning their careers should not feel priced out of homeownership or forced into long commutes due to limited options. Thoughtful development can expand attainable housing while preserving the character of our neighborhoods.

The future of Washington County depends on whether we invest in the next generation today. If we focus on smart growth, support small businesses, and create opportunities, we can ensure young professionals are not just passing through, but choosing to build their lives here.

That is a future worth fighting for.

Electra Janis is vice chair of the Washington County Board of Commissioners.