Independent group volunteers to manage city economic development
Goal is to 'take politics out of position'
Staff reporter
Economic development in Marion is an important topic — not only for Marion City Council and city officials, but a group of concerned citizens.
Todd Heitschmidt spoke to the council Monday evening regarding a development group of volunteers being in charge of the city's development director.
Presented as an "all or nothing" proposition, Heitschmidt said the group was interested in totally managing and organizing the city's economic development department which includes supervising its director.
"This group is willing to step up and take a leadership role," Heitschmidt said.
The group is comprised of Heitschmidt, who is president of Central National Bank, Marion, and other local business owners and community supporters.
"The director would not answer to the council but would answer to this group," Heitschmidt said. "It may remove some of the politics."
Mayor Mary Olson asked if bylaws have been approved by the group. Heitschmidt responded the group had discussed bylaws but none have been formally adopted.
The group is a result of the merging of several groups of business owners and community leaders who want Marion to continue to grow and prosper.
Currently there are approximately 10 people who are involved with the group.
"You want to be involved in the interview process for the economic development director," councilman Stacey Collett said. "No, we would BE the process," Heitschmidt clarified.
A contract would be drawn between the city and the group. The group currently is working on filing for a non-profit corporation status. The economic development director would be considered an employee of the city, Heitschmidt said, with city benefits. A salary, benefits, and multi-year agreement would have to be established.
"If incorporated as a 501(c)3, would that make you eligible for more grants than the city can apply for?" councilman Gene Winkler asked. Heitschmidt responded not necessarily more but there might be some grants available to them and not to the city.
Councilman Bill Holdeman asked if there needed to be a decision at Monday's meeting. Heitschmidt said the sooner the better.
"I'm interested in your proposal," Olson said. "An organization like this could be very helpful."
Olson continued that the council wouldn't make any decisions without talking to city administrator David Mayfield.
"The question is, 'Do you want to talk to us about this or not?' That's the question that needs to be answered," Heitschmidt said. He continued that the group would need some authority even though it has no money and no staff.
Mayfield said he would be willing to assist in the hiring process.
Collett asked if the group's inquiries and information would be subject to open records. Heitschmidt responded they were.
"There are a lot of gray areas I don't understand," councilman Jerry Kline said. "We do have a budget (for economic development). I can't vote for something if there are a lot of gray areas.
Olson agreed there needed to be more details and asked if a work session would be the next step.
Mayfield said he wanted to talk with the city's auditors regarding city funds being used, etc. Heitschmidt said the group's next meeting is Jan. 30 and would like to know before then.
Holdeman said he was in agreement with the proposal and wanted to move forward with it.
Heitschmidt reiterated that the group was specific about the parameters.
"If they aren't acceptable then the group doesn't want to move forward with the city," he said.
Later in the meeting the council set a work session for 3 p.m. Jan. 25 at the city building.
