I am trying to find a viable major business or industry, since the 1880's, that has not had substantial government support from federal, state, and local governments in some form. Certainly most of the extractive industries (oil, gas, mining, timber) have had and continue to have either subsidies or tax breaks. Steel and manufacturing (aircraft for example) also received help. As part of the effort to improve railroads within the US, the railroads were given land on either side of new rail lines. I note that CLT timber start-ups have received help from the governments of Australia, the countries of the EU, and now Oregon. Wise investment, for the common economic good, made the US the industrial powerhouse that benefited not only its own citizens, but the world.

Not sure I understand the reference to the port commissioner having a favorite business, as there is not CLT business currently in our county.