Economic development group asks Iroquois County for $30,000 to support business and workforce programs

Angel Parker, executive director of AirPoint Economic Development, told the Iroquois County Finance Committee she was presenting on behalf of the Iroquois Economic Development Association and asked the committee for $30,000 in county support for the organization's 2025–26 work.

"We are here today to ask for $30,000 in support from the county for Iroquois Economic Development Association," Parker said, handing members a formal request packet and a two-year budget overview. Parker said IEDA assists small towns and businesses by connecting them to state and federal resources, coordinating workforce development efforts with regional partners and helping local governments apply for grants.

Parker described current and planned projects, including a workforce-apprenticeship initiative with regional partners and outreach to manufacturers. She cited one local manufacturer that is beginning operations with multi‑million-dollar equipment investments and said the association is trying to help communities prepare for incoming employees and new business demand. Parker also urged that the county consider promoting site-ready commercial properties and coordinating with realtors to maintain up-to-date property listings.

Committee members asked about IEDA's recent revenues and expenses. A presenter from IEDA supplied recent figures, saying the organization received about $35,000 in contributions in the prior year and projects higher receipts next year, but that staffing and outreach require steady funding. Parker noted some programs require matching funds and that the association sometimes helps arrange grant writers for municipalities that apply.

The finance committee did not vote on the $30,000 request during the meeting. Committee members asked staff to include the materials in the upcoming budget packet and to return with follow-up information. "If you need a score letter, if you need to tell me about the score letter, whatever," Parker said, offering technical assistance for municipalities pursuing grants.