Kiwanis Learns about Economic Development

David Dyer (right), executive director of the Development Authority of Jasper County, made a presentation about economic development at the Monticello Kiwanis Club meeting Monday.

Mr. Dyer talked about Monticello being a great place to live, work and play. He said that the DAJC is working on the future of the community, looking 20 years down the road.

He talked about the future with these attributes: an educated labor pool, prosperous citizenry, innovative business and industry and a liveable community.

He talked about the recruitment of industries, and said what we are interested in is smart growth. He said he is currently working with 13 prospects that would total 404 jobs. He said five of the prospects we know we’re going to get.

He also talked about Norton Packaging that located here a few years ago, and is now about to double in size. He also mentioned the wood flooring plant that recently located here.

Mr. Dyer showed what the new sign at the old Industrial Park is going to look like and showed the sign for the new Industrial Park called Minetta Crossing.

He talked about the importance of regionalism, and the impact of Stanton Springs on the local economy. The county will have less than a $1.5 million investment, and will receive some $5,371,365 between 2018 and 2027. After that the county is expected to get a million dollars a year.