The trip, which is expected to cost taxpayers close to $140,000, is supposed to generate nearly 3,000 jobs for North Carolina residents, which comes out to roughly $47 per job. That is, of course, assuming that the 27 European companies officials plan to meet with are ready to do business in our state.
State Secretary Ken Crisco says the trip is necessary, according to The Charlotte Observer. That’s why all five officials will attend the International Air Show in Le Bourget, France, near Paris, where they will host an exhibit for the second year in a row. Crisco told The Observer that he’s trying to boost momentum for North Carolina in the aviation industry.
But, in the middle of the worst economy since the Great Depression, it’s difficult to justify the expensive annual trip — especially with repeated reminders about the former first family of North Carolina’s lavish lifestyle.
The bulk of the expense, more than $100,000, is for exhibit costs.
Crisco says the officials are taking the frugal route, though. Their hotel is only expected to run $189 per night and the group intends to take public transportation whenever possible.
C’est la voie de choses. (That’s the way of things.)
What do you think? Are the potential jobs worth the expense?
