DEED's 2007 JOBZ report now available online

The 2007 Job Opportunity Building Zone Initiative (JOBZ) annual report is now available online.

JOBZ officials report that the program has created more than 5,400 full-time jobs since the program began in 2004. the report also shows that 339 companies--two-thirds of them in manufacturing--had participated in the program through the end of 2007.

JOBZ offers tax-free incentives to relocating or expanding businesses in an effort to stimulate the economy in eligible rural areas.

Otter Express exploring expansion

excerpted from the Fergus Falls Daily Journal, 3-20-08

Staff with Transit Alternatives say they'll use increased funding from the state to expand service on the Otter Express--and they want your input.

The expansion comes as a result of a 20 percent funding increase from MnDOT. Transit Alternatives will use that additional $116,000 to serve communities along Highway 210.

Anyone wanting to voice an opinion on bus routes can call Transit Alternatives toll free at 866-998-3002.

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Grants available for some child care providers

The Lakes and Prairies Child Care Resource and Referral, Fergus Falls, is offering grants for unlicensed child care providers who want to purchase items for the children they care for.

Caregivers can purchase $400 worth of cribs, saftely items and age-appropriate toys or books.

By Minnesota state law, unlicensed providers are entitled to watch over one additional family's children.

Providers must attend a seven-hour CPR or First Aid training session to receive the grant. They also specify the items they want to purchase on the application. To learn more, contact Elizabeth Monzingo at 800-452-3646, ext. 7628

Fergus Falls ethanol plant up and running

excerpted from Fergus Falls Daily Journal, 3-21-08

After three years of planning and construction, the Fergus Falls ethanol plant is in operation, on time and on budget.

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New strategy for businesses: Uniting as a region

excerpted from the Alexandria Echo Press, 3-19-08

Osakis and Alexandria shouldn't view themselves as competitors for new businesses. And other communities in the county, such as Miltona, Carlos and Brandon, shouldn't think of themselves as "islands" all competing for the same prize. Instead, they should be working together as a regional center to draw new businesesses and industries here instead of losing them to Fargo, Minneapolis or another part of the country.

that was the message behind the Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission's presentation at the Osakis Community Center March 12.

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