Chapter 122

As the discussion unfolded in the cozy living room of Lu Ming's home, the atmosphere was one of anticipation and intrigue. Lu Ming, Secretary Feng, and other county leaders delved deeper into the practicality and feasibility of Lu Ming's visionary strategy to attract and retain young talent as a catalyst for economic development in Qixian County.

Acknowledging Potential Drawbacks:

Lu Ming began the conversation by candidly addressing potential drawbacks of his proposal. He emphasized that while attracting young talent was essential, simply "robbing" them from other regions could have negative consequences. It might lead to demographic imbalances and difficulties in those regions losing their youth.

Financial Considerations:

Secretary Feng raised a valid point about the financial implications of attracting people. Given Qixian County's relatively modest GDP, he questioned whether the cost of attracting and retaining young individuals would outweigh the benefits. Lu Ming responded with a confident smile, stressing the long-term advantages of such a strategy.

The Value of Youth:

Lu Ming explained his stance by presenting a hypothetical scenario that illustrated how attracting the best young talents could significantly impact the local economy. He emphasized that the real value of a population was in its brightest and most capable individuals. Even if the initial cost seemed high, the future contributions of these young people—through taxes, increased asset prices, and cash flow—would far outweigh the initial investment.

Role of An Yirou:

An Yirou, playing the role of a diligent student, attentively served tea to the leaders as they engaged in this economic discourse. Her presence added an element of seriousness and respect to the discussion, symbolizing the potential for youth to contribute to the county's development.

Breaking Down the Economics:

Lu Ming continued to break down his reasoning. He emphasized that young people brought immediate consumption and increased local asset prices. This, in turn, could be leveraged for financial gains through refinancing in the market. He explained the economic cycle that would be set in motion by attracting young individuals.

The Burden of Caring for Young People:

Secretary Feng raised a concern about the long-term financial responsibility of caring for the individuals attracted to the county. He questioned how the county would handle medical security, pensions, and the construction of public infrastructure while maintaining fiscal stability.

Lu Ming's Rebuttal:

In response, Lu Ming tactfully highlighted the difference between immediate and future financial burdens. He pointed out that, unlike the immediate costs associated with attracting and retaining young people, the expenses related to healthcare, pensions, and infrastructure would unfold gradually over the next few decades. This reframing of the issue illuminated the long-term benefits of the strategy.

Secretary Feng's Acknowledgment:

Secretary Feng, quick to grasp the economic implications, acknowledged that robbing talents had clear advantages. He eagerly sought Lu Ming's insights on how Qixian County could implement such a strategy effectively to retain its young population and even attract individuals from other places.

Lu Ming's Comprehensive Strategy:

Lu Ming, embracing the spotlight, outlined a comprehensive strategy that focused on providing young people with essential components for thriving in the county. He encapsulated this vision in a simple yet profound principle—being people-oriented. He addressed various needs, from housing and land for cultivation to medical services, employment opportunities, support systems for learning, assistance, and entrepreneurship.

Financial Benefits:

As Lu Ming delved into the specifics of his proposal, he tailored the strategy to Qixian County's unique circumstances. He suggested a housing policy that would encourage any young person, regardless of educational background, to buy a house in the county with a generous down payment subsidy. The detailed breakdown of the financial aspects revealed a win-win situation.

Multiplier Effect:

Lu Ming emphasized the multiplier effect—how the increased cash flow from young people would stimulate local consumption, business development, and infrastructure projects. The economic calculus he presented showcased the potential for Qixian County to thrive by strategically investing in its young population.

Secretary Feng and the other county leaders, once skeptical, now marveled at the simplicity and brilliance of Lu Ming's proposal. They expressed their gratitude for the enlightening conversation and sought advice on implementing this strategy effectively.

Addressing Potential Competition:

Another county leader, perhaps voicing concerns of potential competition among localities, questioned whether such a strategy might encourage unhealthy competition. Lu Ming, quick-witted as ever, turned the question around, highlighting that this form of competition had always existed, especially in the context of attracting capital.

He pointed out that the incentives offered to businesses were often far more generous than those proposed for attracting young individuals. The leaders, now contemplative, acknowledged the truth in Lu Ming's comparison.

Embracing a People-Centric Approach:

In a final stroke of wisdom, Lu Ming concluded that his proposal didn't change the competitive landscape but rather redirected the focus of competition toward a more people-centric approach. The meeting ended with laughter and acknowledgment of the value of putting people first in the pursuit of economic development.

Secretary Feng, clearly impressed, expressed that it was indeed a worthwhile visit. The room buzzed with newfound optimism as Qixian County contemplated a fresh perspective on development—one that prioritized its people and their potential.