Look no further than the recent decision by Missouri Special Olympics for proof of the popular axiom - economic development is a community effort.
After the group selected Jefferson City as the site for its Training for Life campus, we commended the Jefferson City Area of Chamber of Commerce for orchestrating the proposal and Land Investments for donating the site.
The attractiveness and viability of the proposal, however, was strengthened by support and buy-in from a cross-section of the community.
The proposal included:
• Letters of support from 13 area officials, including representatives from state, county and city government, Lincoln University and medical facilities.
• A roster of more than 90 businesses and associations signaling support, including 20 leaders who attended presentations to Missouri Special Olympics officials.
• Creation of two community groups to assist operations and fundraising. A healthy athlete steering committee will assist with health screenings, as well as locating volunteers and resources. A chamber subcommittee will help identify potential contributors.
Strong community commitment demonstrates interest in a long-term partnership.
The Training for Life campus provides not only construction jobs, but employment opportunities for continuing operations. The local venue also enhances the likelihood Special Olympics will attract visiting athletes and their families to dining and lodging establishments Jefferson City, which will boost local tax revenues.
In addition, the visible and accessible training site near the intersection of Christy Drive and U.S. 54 is designed to serve as a catalyst for future economic development.
"Once the Special Olympics is built," said local developer Kirk Farmer, the site will be a lot more marketable. We hope to attract some uses that will be good for the community - and what they are, at this point, it's too early to tell."
Economic development is about attraction. Jefferson City attracted Special Olympics, which in turn may attract other prospects.
Community commitment, ultimately, not only creates attraction, it sustains momentum.