ORIGINALLY WRITTEN JERRY ENGLER
The push for economic development is going well under the volunteer efforts leading it.
That’s what Tina Groening, chair of the Marion County Economic Development Council, told the Marion County Commission Tuesday, Feb. 20, in a meeting held late because of President’s Day.
Success is evident in the micro-loan program, tourism, surveys and other areas of work, she said.
Groening reported the micro-loan program, started from a Kansas Department of Commerce grant, has made 10 loans in its history for $94,000 with $60,568.92 in principal loaned right now.
The program is receiving $716.45 in monthly payments, she said, with $168.42 of that interest, which can be added to the program for future loans. Right now, the program has $39,916.72 available to loan out, she said.
Groening listed two businesses that have paid micro-loans off, Klose & Kozy, formerly of Hillsboro, and Mid America Marble of Marion.
The Council has expanded efforts to join in tourist groups that promote the Flint Hills and Marion Reservoir, Groening said
At the same time, it has participated in and encouraged efforts to inhibit blue-green algae at the Marion Reservoir, and improve the lake.
She said programs that equip and train tomorrow’s county leaders, such as Leadership Marion County, continue to pay dividends for the county.
Commission Chairman Randy Dallke said projects like a labor survey that shows potential labor for businesses will continue to help.
County Clerk Carol Maggard said the treasurer’s report showed the county had $8,503,958.67 on hand Jan. 31. Special Auto Fund expenses equaled $2,453.90.
The commissioners approved a bid of $2,274.50 from Associated Environmental Inc. to install a well, abandon one and inspect three existing wells at the old landfill southwest of Marion.
Commissioner Dan Holub described his role as a member of a surface water board which wants to make policies that speak with one voice on issues under the advice of U.S. Rep. Jerry Moran to maximize federal and other help.
Sheriff Lee Becker reported to commissioners that his office will take action soon on a herd of cattle that has run loose in the Goessel area for years.
Becker said there is insufficient fencing to hold the animals on the farm they are supposed to belong to, and their continued consumption of neighbors’ crops and hay makes it necessary for him to take a harsher action.
He reported the cattle lack care and are wild, adding that several years ago, an attempt was made to capture them and one was shot as it gored a horse used in pursuit.
