ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: THE KEYS TO SUCCESS; TEAM WORK

Paul W. Sander is a Jackson City Councilman and former Jackson Chamber of Commerce President.

The concept of a team-effort economic development for Cape County could be one whose time has come. With the towns of Jackson and Cape Girardeau virtually bordering each other's city limits, it would seem that a team effort would benefit both cities equally. Let's face it, if new industry is lured to Cape Girardeau, Jackson or the out-county, the entire area stands to gain.

So what could make better sense than the City of Jackson, City of Cape Girardeau, Cape County government and the Jackson, Cape Girardeau and Scott City Chambers of Commerce coming together to fuel an effort to work as one for the economic advancement of our area?

This is being considered at this time by the groups mentioned above. Of course, details of such an undertaking are endless and everyone wants to feel they have been treated equally.

Deciding the details

It is my opinion that the core group now in place should agree on details such as the amount of money each group will contribute to the cause and to write a set of by-laws to govern the group effort.

I also believe the by-laws should include provisions that would exclude people from serving on the board who could benefit directly from its actions. It would be better to have people on the board who are truly interested in the betterment of our economic climate instead of someone who is self-served by the board's decisions. The board should be as small as possible with all groups represented to some degree.

Probably, the first and most important decision made by the board would be the hiring of an administrator and possible full or part-time secretary. The right individuals in these positions would be essential to the success and direction of the group effort.

The success of the entire project may not be immediate, and patience should be a virtue of the investing groups. It is my belief that in two to five years, however, new jobs will be created. If that occurs, the ENTIRE area will benefit not just Jackson or Cape Girardeau. With cooperation, it can happen!