Now that most businesses seem to have recovered from the recent recession, it is time to begin investing in the next phase of our region’s future.

Earlier this week, several community leaders from all over Cass County gathered to do just that, with the help of a grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation totalling $15,000.

Now, it is the community’s turn to invest.

The CCEDC is not asking for any sort of financial contribution from the community, though. Instead, leaders are asking community members — business professionals, politicians and community members interested in the future of the county — for their input.

Beginning with the meeting this week, the CCEDC is attempting to map out the best way to use the grant money.

At three meetings planned for this fall, participants will be asked to put their heads together to determine the strengths and weaknesses of Cass County. Using their findings, invested individuals will develop a game plan and determine which opportunities they can take advantage of.

These meetings, designed to improve the development of the county, will affect more than the region’s economy. With more financial stability and business opportunities, the residents of Cass County can only benefit.

With the convenience of new businesses right in our backyard, we will be able to travel less for certain goods and services. There will be more jobs available, and therefore a lower unemployment rate.

As new businesses become successful, tax dollars will provide the county with more funds to work with, leading to improved public services.

Overall, an improved economy leads to a better lifestyle. The economic development corporation has been given some funds to help improve this process, and in order to use the money wisely, the leaders of this organization need to hear from the people who know their communities best: the people who live in them.

We encourage everyone who is able and interested to take advantage of these open meetings, which are scheduled from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Cass County Road Commission building, located at 340 N. O’Keefe St., Cassopolis on the following dates:

• Sept. 22

• Oct. 20

• Nov. 17

We appreciate the efforts of those who attended the first meeting, and can’t wait to see these dollars go to good use.

 

Opinions expressed are those of the editorial board consisting of Publisher Michael Caldwell and editors Ambrosia Neldon, Craig Haupert, Ted Yoakum and Scott Novak.