Instead of competing with each other for new jobs and businesses, five Maryland counties are joining ranks to create a new "brand" they hope will draw high technology companies to the region. It's a good idea that points up the need for educational achievement and inter-governmental cooperation.
Washington, Montgomery, Frederick, Allegany and Garrett counties are forming "Potomac Tech Territory" based on an idea from Montgomery County Executive Douglas M. Duncan, who felt that companies priced out of Montgomery County shouldn't be chased out of the state.
The proposal, backed by state economic development officials, will eventually have participating counties pool marketing dollars to increase their impact. The first big exhibition for the group will be BIO 2003, an international trade show to be held in Washington, D.C.
Part of what's needed to make this effort successful is a continuing emphasis on education. Both Washington and Frederick counties' community colleges are developing curriculum and training courses for the biotechnology industry.
