The funding will be provided through conveyance fees from property transfers and home sales.
Sandi Arnold, executive director of the chamber, said the funding from the county could be used for things like training to improve business networking.
She said the chamber, city and county will likely work more closely in the future to attract and retain businesses. Urbana also has its own economic development coordinator.
“What it does is expand our ability to put human resources toward this effort,” Arnold said.
Late last year, the commissioners redirected money set aside for economic development back to the general fund to help cover a budget deficit.
At the time, the commissioners said they were still committed to economic development. Since then, the chamber has worked closely with the county to provide that service, and the funding is a sign of the county’s commitment, said Than Johnson, president of the chamber’s board of trustees.
Johnson said Arnold will represent the county in meetings and other activities that involve business retention or expansion.
Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0355.
About the Author