Emery County Attempts to Fill Empty Store Fronts

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By Julie Johansen

On Tuesday, Emery County Commissioners approved submitting an application for a Business Expansion and Retention (BEAR) grant in the amount of $30,000 to help cottage businesses (home occupation) upgrade and/or expand into store front businesses. The hope is that this money can help train or recruit businesses to stores in the business districts of the cities and towns in the county.

Each community in the county currently has empty store fronts. According to the commission, 90% of economic growth comes from within the area, so it is hoped that this will encourage this growth.

Emery County Economic Development is also hosting a “Bright Idea” meeting next week for youth who would like to be entrepreneurs. The meeting will discuss sales marketing, production and other items for developing businesses. To date, 25 youngsters have signed up.

Also during Tuesday’s commission meeting, a number of upcoming activities were announced, including the Emery County Search and Rescue Triathlon on July 13 and 14. An added attraction this year is to catch Emery County Sheriff Greg Funk to win $100. Also, the American Legion Auxiliary is hosting a “Meet the Candidates Night” June 19 at 7 p.m. in the Swell Room in the Emery County Administration Building, located at 75 East Main in Castle Dale.

Commissioner Paul Cowley also took time to praise Emery County Search and Rescue and the team’s recent training on the desert.

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