On Tuesday, July 19th, Grow Clinton held its annual meeting at NelsonCorp Field, home of the Clinton LumberKings. While the warm temperatures were felt by all in attendance, a nice breeze made for a perfect evening to celebrate the past year’s accomplishments.
For those not aware, Grow Clinton is a Non-Profit organization focused on economic and community development and tourism. The organization is funded by investment from our members, allowing us to promote business growth, build community, and advocate for the sustainable economic success of the Greater Clinton Region.
During the meeting, I shared several accomplishments with the audience, highlighting the massive economic impact we’ve realized over the last 12 months. Most notable includes the attraction of Atlas Roofing Corporation to the Lincolnway Industrial Rail & Air Park. A $250 million investment combined with 150 jobs has made this business attraction project the largest in several years. That said, it remains evident that the expansion and growth of our existing industries continue to exceed expectations. From Nestlé Purina PetCare Company to ADM, the list of companies investing in their future is something we should celebrate. Successes like this catapult new wealth into a community and allow for the calculated investment in housing, amenities, and overall quality of life.
Additionally, the creation of the EntreFuel program has provided opportunities to small businesses by offering one-on-one counseling in partnership with the Small Business Development Center. The robust platform of tools supports entrepreneurs by aiding them in identifying their target customers, forming a solid value proposition, and executing a sustainable plan for growth.
Developing a skilled workforce falls in the crosshairs of Grow Clinton’s strategic plan. In partnership with Eastern Iowa Community Colleges and Clinton Community College, we continue to leverage cost-saving training programs designed to upskill and prepare an incoming source of talented and motivated professionals. Several pathways and courses have been established, along with constructing a Career Advancement Center serving high school students in Clinton County.
Tourism has proven itself to be a healthy value generator in our communities. The Tailgate N’ Tallboys music festival boasts a heavy economic impact, ensuring that our hotels realize the effects of overnight stays by visitors. The Grow Clinton tourism office has several events planned, including the BASS Masters Tournament in September and a Kayak Adventures Fishing event in August. Each event will draw in new faces to our region, providing an opportunity to make a memorable first impression.
I’ll share a list of award winners recognized during our Annual Meeting. These individuals selflessly and continually offer their time to Grow Clinton as volunteers serving on boards and committees and participating in Grow Clinton networking events and ribbon cuttings. The winners are selected by a panel of Grow Clinton staff members and acknowledged with the receipt of a plaque expressing our unmatched appreciation.
Julie Allesee Community Leader of the Year – Dr. Brian Kelly, President of Clinton Community College
Manager of the Year – Joe Hoinkis, Site Manager at LyondellBasell – Clinton Complex
Karl Schmitz Memorial Award for Outstanding Ambassador – Judy Farrell, Retired from First Central State Bank
Small Businessperson of the Year – Joy Jensen, Owner at Gateway Realty Group
Al Wise Memorial Award for Outstanding Volunteer – Wes Tharp, Owner of Pix Along the Way Photography
I want to thank everyone for attending the annual meeting and choosing to celebrate our shared accomplishments. Our members and the communities we serve will always come first. The absence of volunteers and investment by over 400 members, businesses, individuals, and dedicated staff would have made none of what I have written above possible.
Economic development is not the effort of a single individual but a partnership of all who call the Greater Clinton Region home.
For more information on Grow Clinton, please visit www.GrowClinton.com.
My direct contact email is asokolovich@growclinton.com.
Have a great day, and as always, STAY AWESOME!
