One of the most important underpinnings for developing sound strategies and well-grounded policies for local and regional planning and economic development is using and applying the most relevant as well as the most credible economic data.

Yet, one of the most pertinent barometers for calibrating what local and regional economies are really all about is also the most overlooked.

Without question, the BEA Local Area Personal Income is far and above the best available local indicator of general purchasing power, and is therefore central to tracking and comparing what's happening in the local economy over time and in comparison to other counties and regions.