MuskogeePhoenix.com, Muskogee, OK

Editorials

Discussion

July 28, 2010

Grant right step for economic growth in city

— The City of Muskogee Foundation’s decision to provide funds to help build a wind tower manufacturing plant here is a bold step in the right direction.

The foundation approved a three-phase, $650,000 grant to help build a 150,000-square-foot plant at the Port of Muskogee.

Eagle Claw Fabrication signed a 25-year lease with Muskogee City-County Port Authority to build along Batfish Road.

Groundbreaking could happen this year and the plant could be up and running — with as many as 175 employees — as early as spring.

The decision to help Eagle Claw complete its plant is an investment in our city’s economic development.

It provides the chance for our citizens to find new, well-paying jobs.

More money in the pockets of Muskogee residents means more money spent in town.

More money spent in town means greater sales tax revenue and a better quality of life for all around.

For that reason, the foundation helped create a cornerstone for future economic development.

Helping private business grow takes on some risk.

But, many times that risk can create great reward.

If Eagle Claw thrives here, it could start our economic renewal.

We applaud all the foundation has achieved by helping many organizations.

We also encourage the foundation to continue in this direction.

Muskogee needs an economic growth plan and the money to achieve the goals of a plan.

The foundation is considering approving larger grants for fewer projects.

That is what the city needs to take a great leap forward.

Text Only
Editorials