Wenatchee Housing: A Clarification

A recent Associated Press article is a bit misleading as to the strength of the Wenatchee economy. Here is an excerpt from that article. My thoughts follow:

Bob Seltzer, a local real estate agent, said the boom there is being fueled by an influx of retirees from rain-plagued Seattle who are looking for warmer weather.

"The economy here does not support high-paying jobs," said Seltzer. But "people can come from Seattle and buy an equivalent house for half the price."

First, let me say, Bog Seltzer is a respected broker of the local Coldwell Banker franchise. I suspect THE quote was taken out of context from some additional dialogue during the interview.

Unfortunately, this article is misleading about the job market and strength of the overall economy. We do, of course, have our share of minimum wage jobs, and mid range wage jobs, BUT we are also blessed to have a wide spectrum of high paying jobs in in a wide range of industries, including (but not limited to):
* Aluminum production
* Hydroelectric Power Production
* Medical Services
* Agricultural Management positions
* Local, State & Federal Government
* Technology

Wenatchee and North Central Washington has a strong and diverse economy. And, we certainly have more than retirees from "rain plaqued Seattle" fueling demand for our housing here.