Talks been two organizations, one public and one private, have resulted in an economic expert being brought into the fold by the public group. Frank Knott, with ViTAL Economy has been contracted for $25,000 dollars by Tri County Regional Planning Commission to offer his expertise in his regional approach to economic development.
The private group, the Economic Development for Central Illinois, under the Heartland Partnership umbrella is welcoming Knott with open arms. EDC President Vickie Clark says the timing is right to unify, as the area works to reduce unemployment by creating more jobs.Clark says an economic summit on January 31st hs already been put on the calendar to bring together public bodies and officials along with Heartland Partnership and the EDC.
Knott is familiar with the economic picture in Illinois, sine he is also leading Connect S-I, a growth effort by 21 southern Illinois counties.
