In late 2011, an Economic Development Group (EDG) formed with the mission of revitalizing the business community of Mount Morris. EDG has had varying roles in accomplishing the following:
- Sullivan Foods – A new 23,000 square foot grocery store constructed in 2015 replaced the dated 14,000 sq. ft. store. EDG facilitated negotiations with the Village for economic incentives to secure this $3,000,000 project for the community. The grand opening for the new store is scheduled for early November.
- Dollar General – EDG assisted with efforts to annex the Dollar General property into the Village limits prior to construction of this small-box discount retail store in 2013.
- Buried Fiber Optic Cable – After a two year effort, buried fiber optic cable running from IL-72 along Mount Morris Road and McKendrie Avenue to a termination at Brayton Rd. was secured. Fiber was extended from that box east and west along Brayton to IL-64 and to the Mount Morris Village Hall, Mount Morris Public Library, Mount Morris Fire Protection District, David L. Rahn Junior High, Mount Morris Township and KSB Clinic. Now that fiber optic cable has established service at the community anchor institutions, iFiber has announced plans to expand to business and residential service.
- Bandshell and Downtown Campus Beautification – EDG worked to educate the community and generate support for the beautification of the downtown campus including landscaping, permanent bench seating, handicapped accessibility and historic street lighting.
- Research – EDG has researched successful small community revitalization efforts to develop strategies and techniques to bring growth to our community.
- Project Submittal – EDG actively seeks opportunities to advance the business and industrial base of Mount Morris by working with Greg Sparrow, Ogle County Community Economic Development Representative, and Dave Pierson, Economic Development Representative, Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. EDG develops and submits proposals for potential industrial and commercial opportunities in an effort to bring business to Mount Morris.
- Casey’s General Store
- A full copy of the Village of Mt. Morris Comprehensive Plan 2035 can be also be viewed on line here .
Watch the Village of Mt. Morris, Illinois website for more information!
