Alliance Board Welcomes New Director, Plots 2016 Growth Strategy

Effingham Regional Growth Alliance recently held a Board of Directors meeting to welcome a new Director to the Board and discuss the 2016 strategy for growth.

The Alliance has welcomed Don Spring, Corporate Controller for Midland States Bank, as a new Director on the Board. He joins returning board members: Chuck Deters, Dieterich Bank, Tom Wright, Wright’s Furniture, Claude Hudson, Washington Savings Bank, Paul Koerner, Koerner Distributor, and Bill Teichmiller, EJ Water Coop.

A Conflict of Interest policy was reviewed and directors were given a disclosure form to complete and return to Secretary Eric Zeller for 2016. The action helps maintain the integrity of all activities within The Alliance. The status and process to recruit and hire a full-time president for The Alliance was also reviewed. An executive search firm will be retained early next month to lead the search.

Committee members for 2016 were reviewed, with volunteers being sought among Alliance member companies to encourage involvement in the planning, marketing, business retention and expansion of The Alliance. Particular emphasis was directed to developing a marketing campaign to attract quality workers to the area and purchasers of Effingham County services and products, as well as available sites and buildings. Marketing sites and buildings to new and expanding businesses, as well as drawing skilled job candidates to the many available jobs in the area are important areas of focus now and for the new leader.

Member recruitment for 2016 is underway. Local businesses passionate about the prosperity, growth, and enhanced quality of living in Effingham County are encouraged to be members. Contact The Alliance for a membership application. Alliance members interested in more information, serving in the success of a committee or team, please visit www.EffinghamRegionalAlliance.com or contact President Dan Woods at (217) 821-1495 danwoodsfache@gmail.com.

Thursday, March 31 will serve as the date for the Alliance Annual Reception. The reception will be held as an Effingham County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours. Alliance and Chamber members are encouraged to invite their network of business friends as guests. Details regarding the event will be announced soon.

The Effingham Regional Growth Alliance is a private/public partnership of community leaders dedicated to economic growth and development of business, industrial and other supporting services to improve the quality of living within the Effingham region.  It's designed to serve the needs of individuals and companies that are considering the many opportunities available in our area, along with the many advantages of doing business in our community.