- January 9, 2026
- Posted by: Regent Harbor Team
- Category: Business
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Contents
About the Voices
Dr. Amanda Stype
Meet Dr. Amanda Stype, an Associate Professor of Economics at Eastern Michigan University. With a PhD from Michigan State University, her expertise lies in public policy and health economics. She’s all about promoting economic literacy, too.
Andy LaBarre
Say hello to Andy LaBarre, a vibrant force in local business. Elected to the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners in 2012, he serves as Executive Vice President and Director of Government Relations for the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Regional Chamber. You’ll find him co-hosting “Washtenaw Business Lens” with a knack for navigating complex economic landscapes.
A Glimpse into 2026
David Fair kicks off the WEMU’s “Washtenaw Business Lens,” diving into an uncertain economic future. With an aging population and labor force constraints, the projected growth seems moderate.
Forecast for Businesses
Dr. Amanda Stype gives us the 411 on which industries might thrive. It all ties back to risk and uncertainty. Not every business will be hit the same, so it’s important to keep an eye on market dynamics.
Small Businesses and Health Care Woes
The health care terrain is treacherous. Dr. Stype highlights how rising costs ripple through every sector but doesn’t sink into complete despair. The Affordable Care Act helped, but its future isn’t set in stone.
Andy’s Angle
LaBarre notes how small businesses struggle in this climate. Healthcare for employees can transform profit into loss, sparking tough decisions for many local enterprises. It’s a chain reaction that affects the whole community.
Aging Populations and Local Economy
With an aging demographic, the long-term care industry might just swell. Dr. Stype brings this national issue to the classroom, urging a conversation on adapting to keep older folks thriving in place.
Business Transitions
Retirement poses its own questions. For many small business owners, the next step isn’t clear. LaBarre emphasizes the disappearing mom-and-pop shops—those emotional anchors of our main streets.
Education and Economic Reality
Public schools and universities face plummeting enrollments. Washtenaw County is no exception. Dr. Stype argues we might just have to ride out this wave. Despite the challenges, she incorporates these realities into her teachings at Eastern Michigan University.
Inflation, Tariffs, and Innovation
High prices are another concern. Dr. Stype isn’t optimistic about inflation cooling off anytime soon. Meanwhile, Chamber members like LaBarre focus on innovation and community relationships to weather the storm.
Student Perspectives
For students, this economy spells worry. Dr. Stype has observed their growing concerns about job prospects. They’re launching into the workforce with the uncertainty clouding their vision.
Final Notes
In wrapping up, Fair, Stype, and LaBarre keep the conversation anchored in real-world impacts, encouraging community engagement through WEMU’s platforms.
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