April 20, 2004
Olney Top 100 Small Town in U.S.

Once again, Olney, Illinois has been recognized as one of the top small towns for business in America by Site Selection magazine. For the third consecutive year, Olney is included on the elite list of Top 100 U.S. Small Towns as rated in a recent issue of the influential economic development publication.

“It is very a very impressive accomplishment and an impressive pattern,” says Bruce Runyon, Richland County Development Corporation Board Chair. He credits the positive attitude of the city and the city council in respect to job growth. “It is a tough business. Every community is looking to create jobs. Olney is on the list because of the successes the city has had in growth this year.”

Site Selection magazine is the official publication of the Industrial Development Research Council, ranking cities and states based on new and expanded corporate real estate successes and economic development. The magazine’s annual findings are considered the ‘industry scoreboard” by the 45,000 executives nationwide who are involved in the Site Selection decisions.

“Being named a Top 100 town for three straight years sends a message that we have the infrastructure and local development support in place,” Runyon continues. “It tells prospective companies that since we have successfully helped several companies get started in our community, we can probably do the same for them.”

Along with city leadership, RCDC is also being recognized for the area’s consistent success.

“Olney is successful because RCDC can respond quickly to inquiries,” states Fred Wells, RCDC Board Member. “RCDC is organized with the data necessary to get a proposal out within hours, if needed.”

Mary Heitzig, RCDC Executive Director is excited about making the list. She also credits the leadership of RCDC and the cooperative nature of city and county leaders for the success. In addition, she points out that the entire community has put the proper tools in place to support businesses and new jobs.

“Fully-developed industrial parks, available buildings, additional land and a talented workforce that offers proven productivity are all very important to businesses that are trying to grow,” says Heitzig. “Olney has them all.”

Dave Berry, Olney City Manager, is also pleased to see the city was recognized on the list. “We have a good working relationship with the Richland County Development Corporation and the State of Illinois. We work together to make things happen.”

All agree that 2004 looks like an even better year for business growth in Olney and Richland County.

“Companies like to go with winners,” points out Runyon. “Success often attracts success. Olney is obviously a winner.”

“We know Olney is a dynamic and visionary community,” concludes Heitzig “Site Selection magazine knows it as well, and they are sharing it with the world.”

Some information for this article was provided by the Olney Daily Mail.