The Marion County Board has passed a resolution to work to support and promote the development of agriculture in the county. The resolution was presented by the Marion County Farm Bureau as part of an effort to have more local involvement. President Steve Brummel says it also points out the importance of agriculture in Marion County.
“Passage of this resolution shares the significance of agriculture in our county and shows support to the industry. It’s the oldest industry in our county and provides food and fuel for our communities, nation and world. In total there are 71,000 farms in Illinois and a total of 1,000 of those reside in this great county. With multi generational families taking care of the land we care about what we do and how it impacts our neighbors and our environment.”
Brummel says agriculture currently plays a big role in the county’s economy.
“1300 jobs are supported by agriculture here in Marion County. An estimate of 7% total jobs in the county. Agricultural related industries generated a total sales of $203-million and farm property resides in 22.5% of taxable value to this county.”
Manager Brad Conant says one of the first projects they want to be involved is the county’s effort to bring broadband to all residents in the county.
The county board Tuesday night also passed a resolution in support of the broadband effort and will now seek support resolution support from all the townships in the county as well as the city of Centralia. The Salem City Council has already passed the resolution.
