You don't often hear politicians put it this way, but he is exactly right. Instead of focusing on luring new companies, localities should focus on keeping a favorable climate for the one they already have. It's an old rule in business: it cost ten times as much to attract a new customer as it does to retain an existing one.

and while the governor wants to make sure we keep promises made to companies, she also wants to make sure we are being fair to the companies that we already have in this state."