Economic development projects on the rise

    HARLAN – Shelby County economic development efforts are ramping up with many projects in the works as the year comes to an end, including Buck Snort Restaurant developments for Harlan.
    Todd Valline, executive director of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said there are many projects currently under way with others rumored to begin.  His office is assisting where it can, he said.
    “On the economic development side we’re very busy,” Valline said.  “As of right now we have 12 active economic development projects in my office and a 13th one about to pop.  These range everywhere from growth assistance program type things where either through myself, or through SWIPCO (Southwest Iowa Planning Council) or through another granting agency we’re looking  at ways to help folks finance some expansion in their business or in a couple cases starting up something new.”
    Building construction, lot availability or current building availability also are items Valline’s office is helping with.
    The Harlan City Council Tuesday, Dec. 5 approved a resolution setting a public hearing regarding the exchange of lots 27 and parcel B of lot 28 in the Harlan Plaza subdivision.  Harlan City Administrator Gene Gettys, Jr. said the move has to do with the proposed Buck Snort Restaurant, which is proposed to be constructed in the subdivision.  The project is moving one lot to the south and will allow for further development of the two lots to the north.