In rural areas such as Marion County, over 85% of new jobs come from existing industry. Each year, the Marion County Development Commission (MCDC), meets with over 35 prime employers within the county. The purpose of these visits to our existing industry is to gain understanding on the current business climate and provide direction for economic development strategies. MCDC has been using the BEST OF IOWA program since 2007 providing over a decade of information on local business trends. In addition, the aggregate information is utilized by state leaders at the Iowa Economic Development Authority to set statewide economic development strategies and programs.
MCDC completes two reports each year. The first is an annual existing business report from the data that is compiled from local employer visits. The second report collects demographic, income and other data points from sources such as the US Census to help local business leaders make decisions.
All across the Midwest communities large and small are challenged with housing issues. In 2015, MCDC contracted with Maxfield Research to complete a county-wide housing assessment divided into 5 submarket areas. The study examined needs for senior housing, rental housing and for-sale housing. In addition, the study examined various levels within each type of housing.
This study was funded by several local organizations such as the Marion County Community Foundation. Since its release in March 2016, several new housing developments are now underway.
On July 10, 2019 Quarterly Local Government Economic Development Meeting recieved an update on the State Housing Trust Fund
