City Council Debates Whether to Help Fund The Alliance

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Published on October 3 2017 9:45 pm
Last Updated on October 4 2017 8:07 am
Written by Greg Sapp

Effingham City Council members Tuesday debated whether to continue to help fund The Effingham Regional Growth Alliance.

The funding for the economic development organization has been a point of contention since its establishment. This year, though, Commissioner Kevin Esker was the first to question whether the City should contribute $50,000 without seeing some results.

Esker, normally very sparing in his remarks at Council meetings, spoke at length on the issue. Esker said, "If we're investing, I expect to see a return on investment. We've given (The Alliance) funding, and what do we have to show for it?" Esker suggested putting the money on account and, when The Alliance locates a property or prospect, then money can be contributed.

Commissioner Merv Gillenwater has been a consistent skeptic of the City contributing taxpayer dollars with no control over how they're used. Gillenwater said, "We need to be more accountable for our money."

There was also discussion of The Alliance's efforts to seek more residential development. Mayor Jeff Bloemker said, "We get confirmation that there aren't enough residential opportunities, so that when we get a business, there's someplace for employees to live."

Commissioner Kevin Willis favors continuing contributing to The Alliance. Willis said, "This is what it costs us to be a member." Gillenwater, though, said he doesn't feel the City should have to pay to belong. Bloemker said, "Perhaps 'membership fee' is a misnomer, it's an investment." The mayor also noted that utilizing The Alliance means the City is not hiring another employee and paying benefits. 

The proposal on the Council agenda for discussion Tuesday said The Alliance will provide monthly sales reports, monthly updates on a strategic plan, and evidence of an effort to lead the creation of a cooperative industrial property development with the City.

City Commissioner Don Althoff was not present for last night's meeting.