By Jacque Day
Metropolis, Ill. – Seed money is in place to jumpstart the Massac-Metropolis Port District. The Metropolis City Council voted Monday to grant development funds for the newly formed port authority. The city has agreed to underwrite up to $175,000 of seed money with the goal of fostering industry and trade in Massac County. Metropolis Mayor Billy McDaniel says it's a positive investment for the city.
"It's going to put tax base here. It's going to put jobs here. We actually feel like anything that we can help them do within our power will come back to us tenfold."
He adds, he's not sure which project the District will start with. "We will certainly be as happy if the first project is in Joppa or Brookport because we'll all share in the success, no matter where it is in our county."
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed the bill to create the Massac-Metropolis Port District six months ago, with the goal of increasing the region's international trade capabilities. The seven-member board comprises Massac County residents and includes representatives from Metropolis, Joppa and Brookport. The mayor says the startup funds can be drawn as-needed on a project-by-project basis, and are to be repaid with interest.