812 Area Code Changes: Consumer Comments Invited

The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) is inviting public comments on the telecommunications industry's request to implement a new telephone area code throughout southern and south-central Indiana.

With the 812 area code projected to run out of numbers in 2015, the telecom industry has filed a formal request with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) to add a new "overlay" code to the 812 area.

Under the overlay proposal:

• All customers in the 812 area code would keep their current 812 numbers.
• A new area code would be added and assigned to new customers/phones/devices throughout the region.
• 10-digit dialing (area code + number) for local calls would eventually become mandatory throughout the 812 area.
• Toll calls would still use 11 digits (1 + area code + number).
• Customers would not need to reprogram existing cell phones, fax machines, etc. with new numbers.

Most states, including Indiana, have needed to add new area codes in the last two decades due to the proliferation of wireless phones and other communications devices. New area codes can be implemented either as overlays or geographic splits.

Since 2005, 43 new area codes have been implemented in North America. All but 2 have been implemented as overlays.

Before 2005, most new area codes were implemented using a geographic split, with an existing area code divided into 2 or more regions. This method was used for Indiana's 317 area code in 1996 and Indiana's 219 area code in 2001.

The industry's filing in the 812 case offers several alternatives that could be used for implementing a geographic split, if the Commission chooses that option.

Under a geographic split:

• Some existing customers would keep their current numbers while others would be assigned new numbers with the new area code.
• 7-digit dialing would stay in effect for local calls.
• Toll calls would still use 11 digits (1 + area code + number).
• Consumers with assigned new numbers would need to reprogram existing cell phones, fax machines, etc.
• Business, not-for-profit organizations, schools, government entities, and other customers would have to pay for new signage, stationery, business cards, advertising, etc. showing their new numbers.

812 is the last of Indiana's 3 original area codes to need long term relief through implementation of a new code. In the early 2000s, industry forecasts predicted that the 812 area would run out of numbers by 2004. However, numbering conservation efforts that were approved in 2001 have extended the 812 area code's lifespan by nearly a decade.

The area code changes will not affect local or long distance telephone rates, local (free) calling areas, or calls to 911, 811 and 211.

The OUCC, the state agency representing residential, commercial and industrial consumers interests before the IURC, is scheduled to file its response to the industry's proposal on May 15, 2013.

In the meantime, consumers may comment in two ways;

1. By participating at one of the IURC's public field hearings in the case. The hearings will be scheduled in the early part of 2013, with more information to be posted at www.in.gov/oucc/2718.htm when it is available.
2. By sending written comments to the OUCC. Comments should include the consumer's name, mailing address, and a reference to IURC Cause No. 44233.

Consumers who wish to submit written comments in this case may do so via the OUCC's Website at www.IN.gov/oucc/2361.htm, or by mail, email or fax:

• Mail: Consumer Services Staff
  Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor
  115 W. Washington Street, Suite 1500 South
  Indianapolis, IN 46204
• Email: uccinfo@oucc.IN.gov
• Fax: (317)232-5923

Written comments the OUCC receives by May 7, 2013 will be filed with the Commission and included in the case's formal evidentiary record.

Consumers with questions about submitting written comments can contact the OUCC's consumer services staff toll-free at 1-888-441-2494. For a copy of the industry's filing and for updates as this case progresses, please visit the OUCC Website at www.in.gov/oucc/2718.htm. More information is also available from today's IURC news release at www.in.gov/iurc/2343.htm. 

812 is not the only Indiana area code facing a shortage of numbers. Industry projections show the 317 area code in the Indianapolis metropolitan area running out of numbers in 2016, meaning an area code relief case for 317 may be initiated within the next few years.

# # #

(IURC Cause No. 44233)

The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) represents Indiana consumer interests before state and federal bodies that regulate utilities. As a state agency, the OUCC's mission is to represent all Indiana consumers to ensure quality, reliable utility services at the most reasonable prices possible through dedicated advocacy, consumer education, and creative problem solving.

To learn more, visit www.IN.gov/OUCC or follow us at www.twitter.com/IndianaOUCC. 

Building Pathways, Building Talent

Over the last four years EcO15 has focused on putting in place technical programs and labs, enabling the Southeast Indiana region to be better prepared to improve the educational opportunities in the career fields that drive our regional economies, particularly advanced manufacturing, which is the dominant and highest potential employment sector in our area.

To that end, a significant investment in programming within Jefferson County was made, supporting Project Lead the Way, Dream It/Do It, and Project-Based Learning at the K-12 level, as well as training equipment at Ivy Tech Community College. These technical programs are now well established. The next step is to continue building a seamless framework to move residents through educational processes and into successful employment.

Why is this important to Jefferson County? Based on federal and state workforce projections, EcO15 surveys and discussions with employers, it is anticipated the advanced manufacturing economy in Southeast Indiana will need to attract five hundred to seven hundred (500 to 700) skilled people for technical roles each year for the next ten years. Considering the importance of business retention to the economic vitality of a community, the need for a skilled workforce becomes significant.

The development of an advanced manufacturing/engineering pathway is a vital step to be taken by our region in the expansion of engineering and technology related programs required by the advanced manufacturing industry in particular and other technically driven industries in our region. Joining with EcO15 is the Indiana Education Roundtable. The Roundtable is supporting a network of regions in Indiana to explore ways to increase the numbers of students entering technical education and following a path into college and into employment in the stat's key economic sectors.

Electronic Tax Filing Required in 2013

New Law Requires Indiana Businesses to File and Pay Sales and Withholding Taxes Electronically

When the Indiana Department of Revenue first offered electronic filing in 1997, only 882 Indiana taxpayers used it. The Internet has since become essential to everyday living, drastically increasing that figure. In 2012, more than 74 percent of all Indiana taxpayers filed electronically.

But now for the first time, electronic filing and payment will be the standard for Indiana business taxpayers.

This year the Indiana general assembly passed a law that changes the way business taxpayers will be required to file and remit sales and withholding taxes. The new law establishes an electronic filing and payment mandate for all Indiana sales and withholding taxes effective January 1, 2013.

"Electronic file and pay is advantageous to both businesses and the state. It provides a quick, easy and secure reporting mechanism, full time taxpayer access to filing and payment records, and secure payment options. Electronic filing significantly reduces filing and payment processing costs for both business and the state," Commissioner Mike Alley said. "This is clearly a win-win solution for Indiana."

Beginning next year, businesses will be required to file their sales and withholding electronically. The easiest way to file and pay is by using INtax, the Department's free, electronic filing and payment system. Taxpayers can also fulfill mandate requirements by having a third-party vendor or tax professional manage their tax obligations. These third-party agents must file and pay electronically as well.

The Indiana Department of Revenue recommends taxpayers register with INtax and begin filing electronically as soon as possibly to avoid the January rush. INtax features filing and payment history, 24/7 access, ACH debit (electronic funds transfer) and credit card payments, and business tax management from one login.

INtax was designed to be efficient and easy for taxpayers. In fact, according to our most recent survey of new INtax users, 91 percent said they were satisfied with INtax and 90 percent said INtax was easy to navigate. More information about INtax can be found atwww.intax.in.gov.  

If taxpayers fail to register, they risk non-compliance and consequently having to go through the collections process, tax warrants and a possible loss of their Retail Merchant Certificate.

To learn more about the electronic mandate and INtax, visitwww.in.gov/dor/4336.htm or call the INtax Hotline at (317)232-2337.

  

Madison Chamber and Economic Development Alliance Celebrates New Website.

www.madisonindiana.com

Madison Chamber and Economic Development’s new website went live August 9^th providing a unified presence, improved marketing and communications, and better service to the community. 

The Madison Chamber and Economic Development is the one-stop shop for prospective and existing businesses in Jefferson County.  With a shared vision of prosperity, the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) and the Economic Development Partners (EDP) have joined forces. Focusing on their common goals, the two organizations are now a unified presence, functioning as one, with shared office space and a joint website.

A strong business community relies on both large and small businesses to maintain a healthy economy; education is the source of the talent, which will sustain this economic growth. All three of these sectors are equally supported under the new alliance.

·         Business Resources

·         Economic Development

·         Talent Initiative

Seventy community members attended the Launch Party and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony celebrating the Madison Chamber and Economic Development alliance on Thursday.

Pictured from left are Madison City Council President-Laura Hodges, EDP Board Chair-Chip Orben, Chamber Board President-Dwayne Cole, Executive Director-Corey Murphy, and Jefferson County Commissioner- Julie Berry.

Partnering with Hanover College

By Jerry Johnson
Executive Director
Business Scholars Program
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Madison Chamber & Economic Development and the Business Scholars Program (BSP) at Hanover College have established a collaborative partnership to enable Chamber members (including businesses, nonprofit organizations and governmental units) to more easily access the BSP’s live case consulting projects. Working in conjunction with its membership Madison Chamber & Economic Development will assist the Business Scholars Program in identifying prospective clients who could potentially avail themselves of the benefits of a consulting study conducted by Hanover College senior Business Scholars. No fees are assessed for this consultation.

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Business Scholars Program Overview

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Established in 2004, the Business Scholars Program at Hanover College is an experiential business education program that enables students to learn and practice business skills and apply knowledge gained from faculty with extensive experience in industry and commerce. In addition to a rigorous schedule of classroom instruction, the Business Scholars take part in numerous workshops and networking events and participate in a project-based, paid internship during the summer between their junior and senior years. The capstone educational experience for the Business Scholars is a live case consulting project undertaken during their senior year.

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Live Case Consulting Project Overview

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The culminating experience for senior Scholars is the Business Strategy course. Business Scholars are required to execute a consulting project or “live case” analysis for a small to medium-size organization.  Projects typically involve a strategic audit, including the development and testing of business alternatives, and a recommended course of action for the organization.  Because projects often require the analysis of sensitive information Business Scholars will sign a confidentiality agreement with the client at the beginning of the engagement. 

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Over a 14-week period Business Scholars conduct analysis and research appropriate to the industry in which the company operates and, more specifically, the business issues identified by the client.  Typically, Business Scholars will be split into two separate teams: (1) the Internal Analysis Team will concentrate on financial and accounting processes, human resources practices (may include employee survey), operations and business structure; and (2) the External Analysis Team will study the industry and competition, products and services offered and markets served (may include demographic and market research studies).

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Client Requirements & Time Commitment

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The consulting project should not disrupt the organization being studied and requires a minimal time commitment on the part of the leadership of the enterprise.  In order for Business Scholars to successfully execute a project with significant real value to management, however, clients will be asked to provide information/documentation relevant to the organization and issues at hand.  Clients are also asked to participate in two important meetings: (1) the Project Kick-off Meeting, scheduled during the first two weeks of the term, wherein the various issues that the client company wants addressed are analyzed and evaluated and the process for ongoing communication and status updates is identified; and (2) the Final Project Review Session, conducted during the last week of the term and completely facilitated by the Business Scholars. During the review Scholars will deliver a professional presentation briefing the client on their findings and key recommendations. Scholars will also provide a detailed report to the client.

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Results

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Hanover College Business Scholars have successfully completed numerous consulting engagements with a wide variety of organizations operating in diverse economic sectors. To date, client feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. 

Lego Camp News Release

Lego Robotics Camp is one tool being used in Jefferson County to encourage students to pursue careers in advanced manufacturing and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math).   Improving the perception of manufacturing careers among our young people is critical, especially considering the following. 

Almost 80% of Americans believe manufacturing is important to our economic prosperity, standard of living and national security.  Yet only 30% would encourage their children to go into manufacturing as a career, per studies done by the Manufacturing Institute. 

Thirty Jefferson County students, age 9 to 14, will use the LEGO NXT Robotics system to design, build and program their robots from scratch.  Participants will begin by following instructions to build a robot using LEGO bricks.  Included in the building materials is a programmable logic controller, much like the PLCs used in manufacturing plants to control materials and processes.  Sensors provide input information to the PLCs which then execute a specific program based on the input. The LEGO robots built by the campers behave exactly the same way. 

Camp runs for three days, July 16 – 18, at Southwestern Elementary School.  Students will demonstrate their robots and share what they’ve learned on the last day of camp, presenting to both parents and engineers from local companies. 

Camp is sponsored by Madison Chamber and Economic Development and is one of many strategies implemented in Jefferson County in collaboration with the EcO15 Region to create a long term pipeline of highly skilled, qualified workers in STEM.  Introducing fun, hands-on technology at a young age can spark an interest in students who may choose to pursue an educational pathway within the fields of engineering or technology. 

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Madison Chamber and Economic Development is part of the EcO15 initiative in Southeast Indiana.

News Release

Madison, Indiana, July 9, 2012 –

The Jefferson County EcO₁₅ Talent Initiative, along with the Madison Chamber and Economic Development Alliance and the Community Foundation of Madison and Jefferson County, thank the Lilly Endowment Inc. for awarding an additional $5 million in grants to support the work of the Economic Opportunities through Education (EcO₁₅) Initiative in 10 Southeast Indiana counties.  The Community Education Coalition (CEC) will receive $2.1 million, and $2.9 million will be awarded to the Heritage Fund – The Community Foundation of Bartholomew County - on behalf of the region.

“Since the beginning of EcO₁₅ in 2007 we consciously built elements of sustainability into our plans here in Jefferson County.  With this announcement, an additional $470,000 is coming our way and provides a strong foundation for moving ahead faster than anticipated.  We look forward to continued collaboration with The Heritage Fund, the CEC, all our regional partners, and especially our partners here in Jefferson County,” said Kathy Huffman, Talent Initiative/EcO₁₅ Jefferson County Coordinator. 

"Grote Industries has actively participated both locally and regionally in the EcO₁₅ Initiative since its inception.  Building the talent pipeline in Jefferson County, and the region, is vitally important to our current and future economy.  Within the Madison Chamber and Economic Development Alliance, EcO₁₅ is the bridge for collaboration between industry and education," said Jim Braun, Vice President and CFO at Grote Industries and member of the EcO₁₅ Advisory Council. 

Creating a regional learning system that trains educators in project-based learning (PBL) has taken hold, impacting thousands of students.  Within Jefferson County the implementation of PBL is a direct response to needs identified within industry to develop the skills of collaboration, team work, inquiry, and problem solving in the emerging workforce.

Noted Bill Barnes, Executive Director of The Community Foundation of Madison and Jefferson County, “This Initiative has engaged the Foundation in new ways and is a model for how communities can form networks to make real and sustainable progress in developing a workforce prepared to meet the demands of the 21^st Century work place. It is very rewarding to receive this additional grant support from the Endowment.”   

“The additional grant funding will carry the momentum forward and aids us in offering a unified presence that fosters a friendly climate where both large and small businesses succeed,” said Corey Murphy, Executive Director, Madison Chamber and Economic Development.  “Due in part to the hard work of the initial EcO₁₅ grant, our region is known as an excellent place for companies to locate. Companies will invest in locations where they believe a qualified workforce is available now and in the long-term. Such investments add to the quality of life because simultaneously they support small businesses, shops, restaurants, festivals and more,” he added.

“With the initial grant, EcO₁₅ helped build and sustain STEM-based programs such as Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Engineering programs and training equipment in Ivy Tech’s Advanced Manufacturing Lab.  Looking forward, our work will continue breaking down educational barriers, creating seamless educational pathways leading to careers in the industries that drive our local and regional economies.   It’s all about developing local talent, the human capital within our community,” said Kathy Huffman, Talent Initiative/EcO₁₅ Jefferson County Coordinator. 

Biz Connect: Arvin Sango

Since January, Arvin Sango Inc. of Madison has been aiming to fill up to 15 new hourly positions per month. The resurgence in hiring comes as they are returning to their former level of output. “We are ramping back up to where we were before the recession,” explained Karen Sassen, Director of Human Resources at Arvin Sango.

Although this is good news for the local economy, the Human Resources Department at Arvin Sango is struggling to fill those hourly positions. It seems there is more than one explanation for this disconnect between opportunities and those who are ready to take advantage of them. It may be because many members of today’s up-and-coming workforce are not aware of the job opportunities in their own community. Lack of interest in manufacturing jobs is another possible explanation. Sassen theorized that today’s high school students are of the impression that jobs of the future will feature them working at a computer, and not doing hands-on work. In a global economy, creativity and innovation are valued, but even more so if they are applied to real life problems. Arvin Sango is looking for hands-on learners, who would be excited to operate state-of-the-art equipment, and are interested in learning “how stuff works.”

There is no one-size-fits-all answer for meeting industry needs and interests of the up and coming workforce or the unemployed. Several projects and initiatives are in the works to bridge the gap between regional industries’ growing needs and the interests and capabilities of the workforce.

EcO15 is part of a Lilly Endowment Inc. grant to fund educational programs that help meet the needs of the region’s largest industries, including advanced manufacturing.

Manufacturing is a main focus of the EcO15 initiative, as it is the “major economic cluster,” in our region. Essentially, EcO15 is helping to develop and fund resources for both educators and students to increase manufacturing job readiness skills as well as awareness.

One example is Project Lead the Way. Part of a national educational initiative, PLTW provides curriculum to schools for hands-on, project-based courses. All Jefferson County high schools are participating in Project Lead the Way with the Pathways to Engineering curriculum. Madison High School’s instructor, Mike Turner, explained how the project allows students to get a taste of the “real world of design and engineering.” The four-class pre-engineering curriculum is progressive, with each class building on the last ending with a capstone experience wherein students experience the life cycle of a concept, taking it through the patent research and design process all the way to creating the prototype. “Students coming out of the Project Lead the Way initiative might be a good fit for Arvin Sango’s summer intern program positions,” said Turner.

Turner hopes that the Pathways to Engineering program will be part of a larger “cultural shift” happening in our community that will encourage students to have a realistic view of what it’s like to work toward a career. Through engagement and hands-on application in classes at the high school level, students learn the desirable “soft skills” of discipline and teamwork.

Another hope is that manufacturers will continue to be involved by organizing school visits and plant tours, which take some of the mystery out of the world of manufacturing for students. Turner guesses that many students lack a vision for what it takes to excel in the specialized field of advanced manufacturing. A strong presence from area manufacturers helps manufacturing stay favorably top-of-mind, and students tend to be more interested in careers that are highly visible.

Visibility is one focus of EcO15’s involvement with the “Dream It. Do It.” Campaign, which aims to light the way for people in the region to advance in their careers and education or training level. Cooperation between educators and manufacturers is a key component of this initiative to meet the training and educational needs of the workforce as they prepare for the promising and growing range of opportunities provided by manufacturers in our region.

Current openings at Arvin Sango are a testament to those opportunities. There are possibilities for promotion and career building at a company that has proven its resilience in the often-turbulent climate of the last four years. Potential areas of advancement include maintenance and team leadership roles. Manufacturing is fast paced and important work. This kind of work would be a good fit for energetic, competitive, hands-on learners who take pride in being a part of a great team.

Because manufacturing is so specialized and revolves around automation, it takes some time spent in the environment learning to operate the equipment to see if it is a good fit for both parties. Arvin Sango offers paid trial period for 90-days. Prospective employees then have the option of applying for a permanent position at the end of the period. Once hired, team members are trained on state-of-the-art equipment involving robotics and computer controlled welding.

“Manufacturing is coming back, and there are careers to be built in this field,” Sassen said. Though we are coming out of a recession, opportunities are there for the taking at Arvin Sango.

All signs seem to point to the fact that it is a good time to begin working toward a career in manufacturing. Educational and training opportunities abound, and with regional support from the EcO15 initiative, Southeastern Indiana is of national interest as a promising region for advanced manufacturing. Area industry is returning to its former production level, which means jobs are available for Hoosiers who are ready to join in on investing in the future.  

Biz Connect: Koehler Welding Supply, Inc.

Today’s business world requires a streamlined, efficient approach to everything.   Acquiring supplies is no exception. Koehler Welding Supply, Inc. caters to small businesses and larger corporations alike, taking care of supply related details and allowing those businesses to focus on their individual products. In business since 1929, Koehler’s has evolved to meet the unique needs of their customers becoming an integrated, diverse supplier and distributer.

“We’re a large, small business,” President Dave Ungru explains. They are big enough to be competitive and keep a deep stock, but small enough to individualize their approach to service, based on their customers’ needs. Koehler’s takes on the responsibility of purchasing and maintaining inventory for a variety of businesses and manufacturers. They directly place purchase orders, and over time, a plant’s supply needs become something that Koehler’s understands and takes into consideration when communicating with vendors. With flexibility and buying power that rivals “large” companies, Koehler’s small-yet-big approach equals net savings for their customers. The overall convenience of having only one supplier is attractive for large and small industries.

“We work to build relationships,” explains Ungru, “getting to know the customers and paying attention to their buying habits helps us anticipate how much product they will need in the future.” This reduces the customers’ wait time, eliminates extra freight costs, and increases efficiency. He and the other employees at Koehler’s personally communicate with vendors negotiating the best possible prices for their customers. If Koehler’s had a motto, it would be “whatever it takes.”

Although gas is their core product, there seems to be no product too large or small for Koehler’s to stock and deliver: Krylon, Gatorade, Wesson Oil, gloves, ear plugs, even toilet paper line their highly organized shelves. They are doing the legwork associated with supplies for plants and small businesses around the country.

One example of exceeding customer expectations includes working with local plant, Dow Corning, to develop and patent a glove to suit their specific needs. Now that glove is used in plants around the nation. Understanding the customers as well as the vendors is a result of long-term relationships and good communication.

To some it may seem as though Madison is in the “middle of nowhere,” but, really it is in the middle of a large business hub. Koehler’s supplies to plants both regionally, in Columbus, Carrollton and Louisville, and nationally, delivering as far away as California and Canada. They apply the “whatever it takes” approach to every aspect of their interactions with customers, down to the delivery.

Originally, Koehler Supply included automotive products, but in 2006, the business became two separate entities, next door to each other:  Koehler Tire and Koehler Welding, Supply Inc.   Since then, the welding supply business has grown to include a larger inventory and more employees. Sometimes in business, the name says it all, but that’s not the case with Koehler Welding, Supply Inc.  This business is much more diverse and offers a wider variety of services than the name indicates.

 Koehler’s has been a Madison mainstay for 83 years. Ungru cites relationships as the key to building and keeping a small business in today’s economy.  Koehler’s also strives to maintain its relationship with the community. Like many Madison area business, Koehler’s gives back, supporting the Clearinghouse non-profit, Ribberfest and youth soccer.

Learn more about them at koehlerweld.com.

Tax Increment Finance (TIF) and Schools

By Corey Murphy
Chamber & Economic Development, Executive Director
Madison, Indiana
May 16, 2012

Education is critical to community success.  Important decisions that affect the quality and sustainability of Madison Schools will need to be made by the local elected school board.

Tax Increment Finance (TIF) is not an option for the schools because state statute prohibits using TIF funds to help pay teachers or other school costs. Madison Schools' funding challenges are primarily within the general fund (i.e. teachers pay).  The general fund is supplied by the state of Indiana, not local property tax revenue.

The slide show located on the school web site (http://www.madison.k12.in.us/) does not mention Tax Increment Finance (TIF) as a factor in the schools' funding challenges.  Declining state support and declining elementary student population are the two primary
reasons for the schools to consider reorganization.

TIF is an important economic development tool as is education.  Both support our community's competitiveness.

I wish the schools well as they chart a new course for our local students and look forward to continuing our partnership.

Biz Connect: Madison Municipal Airport

Sometimes the most vital elements of a community are a little off the beaten path. Take the Madison Municipal Airport for example. Although it is about four miles west of the central business district of Madison, it is one of the major keys to business development. Many high profile visitors have recently received a warm welcome at the Madison Airport: Hanover College President Sue DeWine, racecar driver A.J. Foyt, and Governor Mitch Daniels to name a few. In fact, flights are coming in and out of Madison every day, the majority of which are business related.

While many area corporations benefit from the public airport, small business owners also enjoy this facility. In fact, four Madison business owners have made the Municipal Airport their home-base. Cliff Robinson – Aerobatics; Ralph Rogers – Rogers Aviation; Mark Wilkerson – Aero-Color Paint and Restoration; and Jack Olds –and Over and Under Crop Dusting and Aircraft Services.  Tourists and long-time Madison residents alike can gain a new perspective on the city by taking a plane ride or even flying lessons at the airport.

The airport board values aviation education. To help encourage youth interesting in flying, the board recently established the Riley Aviation Scholarship Fund for aspiring pilots. Plans are in the works to set up flight simulation software at the airport, and the fund is now augmented with three $50-dollar awards from King Schools, which will renew annually. 

The airport is also essential to the Air Methods medical emergency transport service in Trimble County.  In the event of bad weather the helicopter must be stored, and a quick flight to Madison meets that need while keeping the helicopter ready to serve the community almost immediately after the storm has passed.  “The Madison airport is only a ten minute flight from the Air Methods landing pad,” said Debbie Crawford, Air Show Coordinator. The helicopter can also refuel at Madison, a great alternative to refueling in Louisville, which would put them out of service for a longer period of time.

Even though Bowman Field is only about 38 miles away, many Louisville residents choose to store their aircraft in Madison because of the convenience and low cost. “Indiana is favorable to aircraft ownership because of the low registration fees,” said Dick Goodman President of Madison Chemical. This is extremely attractive to business owners as is the facility itself.

The airport is the “front door” of the community, and we get many compliments about our facility,” said Goodman. For visitors looking to retire or relocate to Madison, the airport is the first and last thing they see.   

Within the past two decades the local government began to see the cosmetic importance of Madison’s “front door,” and gave the facility a makeover. Going from essentially a “double-wide” trailer, the Madison’s airport is now a modern, multi-room facility complete with meeting room, pilot lounge, kitchen, and attractive waiting room with a vaulted ceiling and an abundance of natural light.   

Currently, about 35 hangers are in use on the airport property with 54 aircraft based on the field. This includes single engine, multi-engine and jet. The transferrable land lease agreement sweetens the deal for those in the market for aircraft storage; in Indiana there are not taxes on the hanger itself and the fees are minimal.

The Chicago Airport District Office has said we are a “model airport,” said Rogers. The 5,000 by 75-foot runway and 1,400-foot medium intensity approach lighting system can accommodate a range of small to large aircrafts including Citations, Falcons and Learjets. There are about 13,000 take offs and landings there each year enabling not only corporations but also supporting local agriculture, sports and travel. Clearly the airport represents a key component of our local infrastructure.

Economic Development that Moves Us Beyond the Recession

By Kathy Huffman, Workforce Development/EcO15 Coordinator

Economic Development Partners, Madison, IN

May 1, 2012

Most communities feel they, singularly, have been hardest hit by the recession.  However, when Mr. Jeff Finkle, President and CEO of the International Economic Development Council, came to town he suggested that we, Madison, Indiana, located along the Ohio River in Jefferson County, are “within a stone’s throw of normal."   He reassured us the recession hit everyone and we are doing OK.  In highlighting some promising strategies for economic development efforts to counteract the effects of the recession, Mr. Finkle identified several top strategies that our community has already embraced. 

Economic development efforts that move communities beyond the recession include a strong focus on business retention, keeping current companies in place in the community.  Nationally that is exactly where 50 % to 70% of economic development efforts are focused.  Just as the recession was taking hold, Economic Development Partners of Jefferson County (EDP) committed to a business retention and expansion program to identify barriers of growth that could be overcome at the local level.  Listening to company executives in a systematic interview process identified a gap between workforce skills and the skills necessary to work within today’s high tech workplace.

Considering the large investment in technology, robotics and computers by companies in all industry sectors one should heed Mr. Finkle’s suggestion that “all companies are now technology companies."  Within this framework there is a transition in skill sets for the emerging workforce to learn.  Through the EcO15 initiative in Southeast Indiana ten counties, including Jefferson County, have developed strong partnerships between employers and educators to build the pipeline of local talent.  For example, pre-engineering and biomedical classes are now available throughout the region supporting the emerging fields of information technology, engineering and healthcare. 

Moving beyond the recession requires regional partnerships like EcO15 but the extent of such partnerships in Jefferson County is much broader.  Leveraging our community through regional partnerships offers an opportunity to expand economic development efforts exponentially.  Aligning EDP with the Chamber of Commerce enhances efforts for both organizations.  Regional partnerships include the South Central Indiana Economic Development Group, Indiana Economic Development Association, Regional Small Business Expo, Indiana Chamber Executives Association, and collaboration with the Mid-America Science Park. 

In response to the pertinent question Mr. Finkle asked “do our economic development efforts move us forward or have us trailing what is an ordinary economic development cycle?”,  here in Madison and Jefferson County, we should be pleased we are indeed on the right track toward advancement. 

Biz Connect: Dattilo Fruit Company

Dattilo Fruit Company may be one of Main Street's oldest businesses, but what they offer up is always fresh. Started as a family business in 1929, many a Dattilo has moved produce before dawn to ensure a bountiful supply of produce for our community and beyond. From the quaint storefront and cart to the familiar fruit painted truck, Dattilo's is literally a part of the color of Main Street, Madison.

A quote hangs on the wall of their Main Street office, "Quality is remembered long after the sweetness of cheap price is forgotten." In the era of big-box store shopping, personal charm accompanied by service is difficult to come by. Dattilo's retail store combines wholesale savings with that forgotten element of charm. "We open the door for our customers, help them to their cars, and we happily replace items if they are imperfect," says Steve Dattilo, of Dattilo Fruit Company. 

Another specialty of Dattilo's is accepting special orders. "We can get almost any fruit or vegetable in the world, including organic, seasonal, and sometimes even out of season items," notes Steve. "If you have a special request, we will do our best to meet it." Shoppers are encouraged to ask for what they need. The storefront is a display, and if customers do not see what they want, it is probably in the back.

Even gift shoppers on Main Street can find what they need at Dattilo's in the form of a fruit basket. Available year-round, Dattilo's fruit baskets are hand assembled with optional customization. From large corporate orders to smaller, individual orders Dattilo's will happily deliver any size order for any occasion.

Beyond the storefront, Madison residents may not realize that Dattilo's service reach is much broader than individual produce needs. Schools and larger corporations also depend on Dattilo's wholesale and commercial operation. "Between Louisville and Cincinnati, we are the main produce supplier for the schools in six counties." And although they are a certified secondary supplier for Wal-Mart, local businesses - like Hinkles, Key West Shrimp House and Kings' Daughters' Hospital - are among their clients. The way the Dattilos see it, local businesses buying from and taking care of each other is what community is all about.

Many small towns have all but lost their treasured family-owned businesses, but Madison still has many established standouts, Dattilo's being one of them.

So, what is the recipe for 83 years of successful business in a small community? "Quality and service," says Steve with certainty. "When you're small, it's all you can offer: a good product at a competitive price and, above all, service."

Article written by Angela Elles, freelance writer for the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce