Organization would replace previous agreement
By HOLLY GASKILL
Wells County may pursue developing its own non-profit organization for economic development.
Commissioner President Jeff Stringer told the board that the county would soon begin the hiring process for a new economic development director. Subsequently, County Attorney Ted Storer advised that the commissioners would have to decide how the position, presumably employed by multiple government entities, would be overseen the position.
Storer gave two options — a fee-for-service agreement or an interlocal agreement. With a fee-for-service agreement, the commissioners would oversee the economic development director and bill the city and towns. An interlocal agreement, on the other hand, would require the creation of a nonprofit and an advisory board, Storer said.
The commissioners appeared interested in the latter option, but did not vote on the matter. Stringer expressed some hesitation with the idea of another advisory board, and Storer stated they could appoint government officials to the board.
The discussion comes weeks after disagreement between municipalities and the Wells County Chamber of Commerce led to the ultimate dissolution of the economic development branch within the nonprofit organization. The parties had been unable to settle on a contract, specifically regarding oversight and communication allowed to the municipalities. At the time, the county and city of Bluffton also approved a contract with Cheryl Morphew of Johnson County for economic development consulting.
Morphew will “help in the interim,” Stringer explained Monday. Stringer also stated a drafted job description was sent to the commissioners; it was not provided at the time of print.
Storer also said he would continue his coordination with attorney for the city of Bluffton, Tony Cromwell.
holly@news-banner.com
