In a recent interview with “The John Curley Show” on KIRO Newsradio, Seattle legend Scott Fitzsimmons shared his decision to move his businesses and residence to Arizona, citing a series of issues that have made Washington an unattractive place to do business. This move, which has been in the works since 2019, is a significant shift for Fitzsimmons, who has called Washington home for decades and has deep roots in the state.
The Reasons Behind the Move
Fitzsimmons paints a bleak picture of the business environment in Washington, highlighting the estate tax, traffic congestion, and a general sense of things not heading in the right direction. He feels that the state's leadership, particularly Seattle's mayor and Governor Ferguson, are to blame for this negative trajectory. Fitzsimmons describes the mayor as the most incompetent person he's ever seen and criticizes Ferguson for continuously introducing new policies without any apparent benefits for the people.
The Impact on Fitzsimmons and His Family
The decision to leave Washington has been emotionally challenging for Fitzsimmons and his family. Washington has always been their home, and they feel a deep connection to the state. Fitzsimmons expresses a sense of loss and frustration, stating that he worked hard to reach a certain point in his career and doesn't want to see his achievements taken away. He feels that the current political and economic climate in Washington threatens his hard-earned success.
A Sense of Betrayal and Appreciation
Despite taking a small financial loss by selling his properties, Fitzsimmons is excited about moving to Arizona, where he believes he will be appreciated for his contributions. He contrasts this with his experience in Washington, where he feels unappreciated and even targeted by the state's leadership. This sense of betrayal has driven him to seek a new home for his businesses and family.
A Finger Still in Washington
While Fitzsimmons is moving the majority of his operations to Arizona, he is not completely severing ties with Washington. He plans to maintain a presence in the state, keeping a small business and a piece of property. This decision reflects his deep connection to Washington and his unwillingness to completely leave behind a place that has been his home for so long.
The Broader Implications
Fitzsimmons' story raises important questions about the impact of political and economic decisions on businesses and individuals. It highlights the potential consequences of high taxes and perceived incompetent leadership on the business environment and the emotional toll it can take on entrepreneurs. His decision to move could also have a ripple effect, influencing other businesses and individuals to consider similar moves.
In my opinion, Fitzsimmons' story serves as a cautionary tale for policymakers and a reminder of the importance of creating an environment that fosters business growth and appreciation for its contributors. It's a complex issue with far-reaching implications, and one that deserves careful consideration and reflection.
