Conference energizes rural communities

Corn Belt Power Cooperative, Council of Governments (COG) and Iowa State University Extension have found a way to inspire, reaffirm and generate excitement in rural Iowa communities -- the Mid-Iowa Community Development Conference.

"This conference gives me a chance to visit with people and share ideas," said Romaine Lee, Humboldt County supervisor. "There's good representation from small town, rural Iowa. It's always helpful; that's why I put it on my calendar every year."

The three organizations share a constant presence in the rural communities, but they bring to the conference unique elements that have made the conference a success for 10 years. ISU Extension's research base and network of contacts, Corn Belt Power's financial support and desire to inform rural Iowa, and the COG's insight into current community interests are a fine blend at the planning table.

"This conference gives us an opportunity to put into action two of the seven cooperative principles that we abide by -- education, training and information; and concern for community," said Jim Sayers, Corn Belt Power Cooperative marketing director. "It gives us a chance to work with good people who have a common goal."

"We are a link between the communities and the state programs," said Steve Hallgren, Northwest Iowa Planning and Development Commission. "This conference gives a local perspective to those issues -- like funding, grants and regulations."

Conference presenters are members of rural communities that have experienced success in some aspect of community development and can serve as an example, inspiration and support network for other communities facing similar projects.

"I realize now that there are other resources out there that we haven't tapped into and we are a resource for other communities," said Diane Collier, 2000 conference presenter and St. Ansgar city clerk. "The conference was a good chance to have some interaction with other folks around the state and share ideas."

Beautification projects are a favorite break-out session topic at the Mid-Iowa Community Development Conference. St. Ansgar's presentation at the 2000 conference has been an inspiration to many other communities.

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• Last update: June 20, 2000