City officials optimistic about more jobs for area

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, July 9, 2003

Austin city officials are watching the Mower County Board closely.

After Tuesday's decision to advertise for bids on a coveted piece of real estate, that could result in the creation of new jobs, the city representatives are unanimous in their support of the county commissioners.

George Brophy, president and CEO of the Development Corporation of Austin, recently assisted the county in bringing McNeilus Company of Dodge Center to Dexter where a new manufacturing plant is in operation.

Email newsletter signup

His reaction to Tuesday's county board decision was cautiously upbeat.

"The board took an important step toward economic expansion today," Brophy said after Tuesday's meeting," DCA's former chairman, Don Hodapp, continually reminded me that the only economic success that will ever come to Austin will result from working together. In this case it means all out support for an industry that wants to expand.

"At the same time we cannot expect our county board to support a move without a plan for one of its biggest departments. DCA, the Chamber and City of Austin have to be available to assist our county to act in a business-like way. A great opportunity awaits us. We have the resources to meet the challenge."

Austin Mayor Bonnie Rietz was pleased with the decision.

"I think it's great," Rietz said. "I know the county has been discussing bringing Human Services and the other offices back downtown and I think they're being very progressive to go forward and advertise for bids for the building."

Sandy Forstner, executive director of the Austin Area Chamber of Commerce, also praised the county commissioners for pursuing the economic development opportunity.

What Forstner liked best was the prospect of creating new jobs in Austin.

"The economy has been so bad nationally and in the state for the last couple of years and the only thing that can really turn that around anywhere is the creation of jobs," Forstner said. "Employers hiring people helps the economy."

Forstner said he is also aware of the county's recent interest in bringing county offices to one central location.

"They've been interested in the Usem building downtown for some time and with all the county offices so spread out, finding one central location for everything is a good idea," he said.

Lee Bonorden can be contacted at 434-2232 or by e-mail at lee.bonorden@austindailyherald.com