Membership and the website were at the top of the list for discussion by the MRED (Moniteau County Regional Economic Development Council) board, Wednesday. Nov. 18, at Downtown Café in Tipton.
MRED is in the process of bringing all the membership renewals to April, as decided by the board at a previous meeting. Membership renewals previously were determined by the date which the business or other entity originally joined the MRED. Since this has proven to be unwieldy, the board agreed to have all membership begin in April of each year, with pro-rated membership fees for those joining at a different month.
The board also reviewed the membership levels, and perks, with changes to be discussed and, possible voted on, at the next meeting. Currently, the platinum level members - $1,000 annual membership fee - have their logos listed, and a link to their websites on the MRED website - www.mred.biz. It was considered reasonable to include that perk to the gold level - $500 per year. Several of the membership levels are being revised and a new one added for individuals and home-based businesses at a rate of $100.
Mike Kelley, MRED chair person announced an account is being set up for the grant funds awarded by the national USDA organization for a gigabit broadband development opportunity. When the account is set up, the marketing plan can continue being developed, and the project can go forward to take advantage of the high speed internet availability. The high speed internet has become available due to the installation of fiber optics by Co-Mo Connect.
The inventory for Moniteau County building properties includes six locations between California and Tipton. Kelley said several entities are searching for possible suitable business locations in Moniteau County. The central location, highway, railroad access and high-speed internet access all come into play in these considerations.
With the intent of retaining all businesses in the county, whether MRED members or not, visits are planned. Hopefully, all can be contacted and made aware of what it being done to improve and develop the economy in the county.
Jan. 13, 2016, has been set for the MRED annual meeting. The meeting will be at noon. The location will be announced at a later time. There will be no regular meeting in December.