RBC I When community members work together toward a common goal, great things happen. This is just the case in Meeker. Representatives from the business community, special tax districts and the community are working together on economic development efforts. On Sept. 26, nearly 20 people attended a meeting to discuss infrastructure needs, how to make Meeker more “marketable” to employers and what developments and expansion projects are currently happening.
Curtis Creek Industrial Park, East of Meeker, is a prime area to begin analyzing the feasibility of adding water and sanitation services to businesses and land owners. There are many acres available for additional development within close proximity of this industrial park and by adding infrastructure today, it will make future land development easier and more cost effective.
In the past, Meeker has relied on individual businesses to open their doors for business and create new employment opportunities. We now need to take a more proactive approach, and assist businesses to relocate or start up in our community. We need to help our existing businesses through retention and expansion efforts, but we also need to look at recruiting new businesses. More employment opportunities mean more dollars in our community supporting our local economy and helping the community to thrive.
This group will research funding and grant opportunities, and continue looking at the current business climate to see where improvements can be made. If anyone is interested in joining this effort, contact the Meeker Chamber of Commerce at 970-878-5510 for more information. These meetings are facilitated by the Meeker Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Meeker, and Rio Blanco County. The next scheduled meeting is Oct. 24.