Curious about regional issues affecting workplace

[OneGrassRoot]

I've been researching ALL DAY LONG trying to find blogs or other sites which deal with regional workplace issues. I'm in the middle of a project regarding the modern workplace, and in trying to come up with various perspectives as to what affects the workplace, I was curious about how regional issues can influence this. Sorry if this doesn't make sense, my brain is a bit numb after a full day of Googling and Technorati-ing...lol.

I know having a huge employer (with potential for lay-offs, etc.) affect a particular area, but what are other factors?

For instance, I'm in the Southeast, the Bible Belt. Religion is a big issue in many workplaces.

Weather factors certainly affect the workplace from region to region.

Any ideas as to more of these factors, and where I might do more research? If you have specific, personal input, I'd be very grateful.

Thanks DUers!
:)

[Auggie]

1. Can you talk to actual business owners and/or

managers, or any local business clubs (Rotary, for example)?

[sybylla]

2. style of local government as well as tax structure vary from state to state

By that I mean, in my state we allow communities to organize as cities and as villages, which gives them different powers. In the rural areas, the local government entity is the township which is usually a 36 square mile area with elected board members. Over them all is county government with its own elected executives and board. Over that is the state.

It's my experience that many other states have organized their government differently.

All of these levels of government - whatever they are - have different taxing authority regarding property tax and sales tax. All of them have different restrictions on what they can legislate and regulate within their borders. All have different zoning requirements (some not at all). And Republicans as well as the Chambers of Commerce are quick to suggest that all of these things matter when it comes to chosing a location for a business. It can also affect regional income levels and property values.

And each of these levels of government are suceptable in different ways to influence over taxation and regulation.

As for other ideas for more research - considering the above factors you may want to look at chambers of commerce. You might find one that has done studies like this. That doesn't mean you'll like the answers they come up with. In my state the chambers of commerce lean seriously republican in philosophy. But at least they might help you develop a list of factors to study