Group promotes growth, investment in city s future
A group of Marion leaders are looking for other leaders to assist them in promoting Marion.
Don Noller and Chris Costello spoke Monday to Marion Kiwanis Club members about the new venture.
The group, Marion Economic Development Association, is accepting members at $100 per person to promote the city to potential businesses.
"We're not trying to take anything away from existing groups," said Noller.
The group's first goal was to assist the city in hiring an economic development director.
"That goal was accomplished with the hiring of Jami Williams," Noller said.
The group's next project is to oversee the production of a new video to promote the city to those interested in opening a business in Marion. The City of Marion will assist in the costs, said Costello.
"We've been in contact with two businesses interested in Marion," said Costello.
When a business is landed and interested in locating in Marion, particularly the industrial park, the investment group may provide a building and lease.
"Greg Carlson should be commended," said Costello, "because he's the one who got this started."
There currently are 12 members and are looking for more who want growth.
Kiwanis member Bill Meyer said there was an investment group 20 years ago and $100 bonds were issued to supply funds for the group.
"A number of businesses were started," said Meyer, including Stone City Café, the location of the weekly club meeting.
Costello said this board is separate from the city and is not affiliated with the city's economic development advisory board.
The group works closely with city officials but is determined to see the community grow.
"We think if we can get that first building up in the industrial park, more will follow," said Noller.
For more information, interested people should contact Noller or Costello.
