Independent James Kelly says they should be envious of their neighbours in Carlow and Kildare.
Income from commercial rates should be higher in Laois given it's central location, roads and infrastructure, according to one local rep.
The O'Moore County took in €14.6m last year in rates, behind only Longford and Leitrim in Ireland.
Councillor James Kelly says a taskforce is being created by Laois County Council to liaise with the IDA and encourage big industry to the region.
The Independent rep believes they need to compete with their neighbours:
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