By Jon Watje
Staff Writer

EL RENO – A partnership between Canadian County and the Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) could bring more jobs and growth to the area.

John Johnson of ACOG visited Canadian County Commissioners on Monday to ask for their participation in an application to the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration to develop a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the central Oklahoma region.

“There are already several groups in Canadian County that are trying to bring more business here,” Johnson said. “We would play a different role because we do not want to compete with these groups. Our role would be a support organization that would help access Federal grants that are not currently available.”

In order to be eligible for the grants, Johnson said it would be crucial for Canadian County to join as a partner in an Economic Development District.

“For member cities and counties to be eligible for EDA funding, Central Oklahoma needs to become an Economic Development District,” Johnson said. “ACOG is the only council of government in the state of Oklahoma that is not designated a district.”

Other counties already on board with the district is Cleveland County, Logan County and Oklahoma County.

“We need a financial commitment of $5,000 from Canadian County and this is a one time charge,” Johnson said. “The total project cost is $300,000 and if we meet our 50 percent match, we will receive a grant of $150,000.”

Johnson told commissioners of some of the advantages of the plan for Canadian County.

“The CEDS and the EDD provide an opportunity to be part of a comprehensive approach to Economic Development and job growth in Central Oklahoma; providing a map for a better future,” he said. “Members of the district gain great access to federal Economic Development funds and funding opportunities. It will open doors to federal funding that Oklahoma City and the region do not have full access to currently.”

Johnson assured commissioners that that partnership would not charge for services already given to the county through the Greater OKC Chamber or any other group.

Commissioners tabled the issue for their next meeting on Monday, March 8 and will decide whether to submit a formal letter of commitment to partner with ACOG for the application.