The Ontonagon Economic Partnership met last evening at the Ewen – Trout-Creek School. The meeting was one of some historical significance, in that the Partnership was completing its first year of business.

Just one year ago, business owners, politicos and residents from all four corners of Ontonagon County gathered together to discuss what they could do to stem the tide of the economic downturn threatening the future of the County. The impetus for moving things along was of course the closing of Smurfit – Stone. The closure threatened Ontonagon County as well as two local school districts.

The people at that initial meeting went on to form the Ontonagon Economic Partnership, patterned after a similar organization in Dickerson County. The members were initially led by Frank Wardynski, the County Extension Agent.  Frank had the members organize themselves into working committees that would each seek out different ways to improve the County’s future.

The OCEP formed a non-profit corporation after several months searching out the best way(s) to fund the project. Local businesses and businessmen contributed to the group as well as revenue provided by governmental entities and the Chambers of Commerce. The members of the OCEP searched out a community development type person that could and would do more that write grant applications. They knew what they wanted and then partnered with WUPPDR that would find a grant that would be used to fund the position. Several funding resources were utilized, the Michigan Economic Development Corp, and the Rural Business enterprise program of the USDA.

Subsequently, Kevin Manninen was hired for the position. Manninen will work three days a week in Ontonagon County, one day per week in Baraga County and the remainder of his time will be consumed in Houghton. 

Manninen is currently researching a means to keep the E&LS from pulling up it railroad track in the county. Manninen reported at last evening’s meeting that the Railroad is not planning on pulling up the tracks until April or May.

Another project already in the works is the development of websites; for the group as well as county businesses. A web presence is a priority concern in that it is a gateway to businesses and business owners everywhere. “Live where you play”.

The various committees are very active and they are seeking out positive results on many different fronts. 

Many groups and committees fade away in less than a year; the Ontonagon County Economic Partnership is still going strong. They have several promising irons in the fire; however, these ventures must remain under wraps for now.

The current officers are: Ray Tessmer, President; Mike Urbis, Vice President; Frank Wardynski, Secretary and Resident Agent; Sue Preiss, Treasurer.

Tuesday, November 9th, the Ontonagon county Chamber of Commerce is hosting a “Meet & Greet” for Kevin Manninen, Business Support Specialist For Ontonagon and Baraga Counties. The event will take place at the Northwoods Candlelight Inn, located in Ontonagon and is open to the public. If you are planning on attending, please call the Candlelight and let them know, as refreshments will be available. There will also be a cash bar. The phone number for the Candlelight is 884-6300.