Web posted
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
City gears up to get business
By JAMES JORDAN
Traveler Editor
City commissioners put off their goal-setting meeting Monday, but still took time to talk about the direction they would like the city to take at their work session meeting.
One possibility is the establishment of an economic development board that could focus on bringing development to the city.
Commissioner Scott Margolius liked the idea, saying "everyone expects the commission to do it, and this is one way of doing it," he said.
The board could be made up of commissioners, or whoever they appoint to the board.
City Manager Doug Russell said the board could target a specific area and aggressively go after that type business.
This would be similar to what groups like Cowley First do, but it would be aimed at Arkansas City specifically.
Some of the commissioners want to bring in small industry.
But Commissioner Patrick McDonald said those type jobs are normally not high paying jobs.
Commissioner Mel Kuhn pointed out that 90 percent of the economy is small business.
"We need to find out what they (small industries) need. This gives us a tool," he said.
Mayor Dotty Smith said the city needs to develop a small industrial park so the town would have an area to use to attract business.
Commissioners discussed a few locations, such as an area south of Madison near the levee and the location of Curry Field if the school bond issue passes and new athletic facilities are built.
Smith suggested the commission look at some possible areas for such a park and the commissioners seemed to agree. Some areas in town would require lots of work, and it might be better to buy new land.
Commissioners agreed to continue to look into the possibility of an industrial park.
At tonight's regular meeting, commissioners are expected to:
* Set a public hearing to de-annex the land north of Skyline Drive that could have been the location for a Lowe's. According to the contract, the city agreed to de-annex if the deal did not go through. The city will have to have a public hearing before taking action.
* Sign off on an agreement that will allow CoVista hospital to buy the shares of CHA, which was to operate the new hospital near Strother Field.
This will allow CHA to get out of the deal.
Hospital officials say they are still trying to get something worked out, and are looking for financing for a new hospital.
* Agree to financial terms for a lot on South Summit. The lot will be sold for $2,000 and a meat market is to be build on the site. There was some concern that the mural will be blocked, but with a driveway on the side, the mural should still be visible.
* Considering a resolution authorizing an amended contract with the Arkansas City Area Chamber of Commerce to operate a Convention and Visitors Bureau.
* Considering an ordinance modifying city code, revising governance of city boards. This will install term limits and other guidelines for boards.
* Mayor's appointments to various city boards.
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