By David S. McLaren As we all know, our local economy has taken a major hit from the pandemic. This is the worst impact in my lifetime; but there is good news ahead. Image David S. McLaren is the managing partner of McLaren & Associates CPAs, LLC in Shrewsbury. Reach him at Dave@dmclarencpa.com. Gross domestic product is expected to grow at more than 4% next year. Social distancing measures and government required shutdowns dampened spending as fear spread. As restrictions are lifted, I expect consumer spending will increase. As more people get their jobs back, this will improve our local economy. With the outlook of a vaccine in the coming months, there is a light at the end of this horrible tunnel.