Jobs. Jobs. Jobs. That is what nearly every citizen would say is the biggest need here in Lawrence County.

Everyone wants them — but not in their backyard.

The NIMBY mentality — Not In My BackYard — seems to surface every time a developer looks at any industrial development here, creating an environment that is almost hostile to growth and prosperity.

The latest example to rear its ugly head is the outcry that erupted after an Ashland, Ky., business owner approached the county commission about a barge repair and scrapping facility along County Road 1A in Hamilton Township.

The businessman was gauging interest and seeing about potential grant funding that could assist with the project that was touted as creating as many as 50 jobs.

It didn’t take long for someone to stand up and complain that they don’t want it here. A citizen presented about 40 signatures on a petition that expressed opposition to the plan.

But, you know what the real problem is? Most of those citizens don’t even know what that plan actually is.

The proposal — which is in very early stages — would be to use property along the riverbank and is separated from the roadway by 20 or 30 acres of land. It would likely have minimal impact on nearby residents.

It is understandable that property owners don’t want to see anything that will diminish values or affect quality of life. But they also have to understand that this region drastically needs jobs and a negative approach without all the information creates an environment that is not business friendly.

Everyone must work together and focus on better communication to promote economic development.

Otherwise all we will ever be able to do is talk about jobs.