County takes next step with development position
Marion County Appraiser Dianna Carter-Frantz asked the county commission questions Monday about their intention regarding an economic development position.
Commissioner Howard Collett began the discussion by saying the commission had "hashed it over" and it was time to make a decision.
"We can continue as we have been," said Collett, "or we can try something new. We need a countywide view point."
Chairman Leroy Wetta asked the commission if they were willing to move forward.
"I think we need to move forward," said Bob Hein, commissioner.
Carter-Frantz asked if she could speak about the position and said she was concerned about countywide economic development.
"Cities are responsible for economic development within their cities," said Carter-Frantz. "How will the person in the county position decide which city gets the business?"
Carter-Frantz added she would be concerned about a liability issue.
"The chances of getting something large is relatively slim," said Carter-Frantz. "The money it would cost for the position would be more than the benefits."
Stan Thiessen, of South Central Kansas Economic Development District, explained the reasoning for county development.
"The difference between county development and community development is a county needs a development strategy to reverse the negative growth," said Thiessen. "Initially we can't court new businesses but need to grow our own and provide assistance to established businesses."
Thiessen added the county needs long-range strategy and someone needs to work full-time at it.
"Your task is to broaden the tax base," Thiessen said to the commission.
"I still do not see the county spending money for this position," responded Carter-Frantz. "We can be represented without having a paid person do it. Unless the county is willing to put in an industrial park, there's no need."
Randy Dallke, mayor of Peabody, said he was the one who suggested the task force defining the position.
"It needs to be for the benefit of the county," said Dallke.
"I do not see us sitting idle and waiting," said Wetta. "There has to be some momentum. The state has said the status quo is a losing proposition."
Victor Burns, county employee and mayor of Lincolnville, said he did not think the position would benefit Lincolnville.
"I'm scared if someone is interested in starting a business in Lincolnville being swayed by the county economic development person to go somewhere else," said Burns. "I can't see how this is going to help my community."
Thiessen explained the purpose is to work with communities to determine assets to accommodate growth.
"The position won't make recommendations of which community can provide the best location or service," added Thiessen.
Carter-Frantz reminded the commission of an earlier discussion Monday with personnel from road and bridge regarding road improvements.
"You just stated we have a shortage of funds," said Carter-Frantz. "Unless there is a revenue windfall from this position, then I can't see doing this."
Collett responded he did not think there would be a windfall but "we need to find a way to start working toward the future."
Carter-Frantz said it would probably happen without a paid position.
Wetta said immediate problems are short term.
"We've got long-term problems," said Wetta. "Ten to 15 years down the road is going to be worse than what we have now."
Burns asked the opinion of the Marion County Economic Development Council.
"Are they sleeping completely or are they concerned?" asked Burns.
Hein responded, "Hillsboro representatives feel they're doing a good job."
"The members of that council are part-time," said Wetta. "They have other responsibilities. The energy needs to be used in helping current businesses grow."
Hein asked where the funds will come from for the position.
"Money is tight," said Hein. "I think we need to budget for it."
"We need to get an idea of the cost," said Wetta.
Hein added it is going to cost more than what Wetta may realize.
Wetta said he did not think a college degree should be a requirement but a demonstrated ability was necessary.
The commission decided to send the description to the Kansas League of Municipalities for a rating and salary range.
"We're (county employees) not up to median yet," said Burns, "so are you going to pro-rate it?"
Carol Maggard, county clerk, said she would try to have the job description completed and to the commission by next meeting.
"I was thinking about Victor's concern about businesses being swayed one way or another," commented Collett.
Wetta responded there are rural businesses who do not have any assistance.
Thiessen said it was probably all right for the commission to contact the league for assistance but "finding a person with passion" will probably cost less money.
Collett responded that hiring an out-of-county person is more expensive but hiring a local person gives the perception of favoritism.
