This week, two prospective clients toured the soon-to-be silent Intermet-Ironton Iron plant, considering whether the property is a place they want to move – or to build – their businesses.

Sunday, January 16, 2000

This week, two prospective clients toured the soon-to-be silent Intermet-Ironton Iron plant, considering whether the property is a place they want to move – or to build – their businesses.

One of the prospective tenants heard about the building through a message passed around by the union, while the other read about the empty building in a media report.

It would be nice if these first visits brought jobs to Ironton, but even if they don’t, there is something all of those who are working to bring industry to Lawrence County can learn from the visits this week.

The very preliminary efforts by the union have already gotten someone to look at the plant – and all it took was word of mouth.

Imagine if Ironton and Lawrence County launched a real campaign to attract industry – maybe we wouldn’t have enough buildings to house all those who would be interested in relocating here.

Perhaps the first goal we should have as a community is to really sit down and figure out what we have to offer to a potential employer. This could be accomplished by a committee composed of some of our county’s best spokespeople as well as government and economic development officials.

With paperwork, a presentation and people willing to spread the word, there is no telling how quickly we could get those buildings full.

In the meantime, although they, of course, have their own interest in filling the plant, the Steelworkers Union should be commended for its quick action. The union’s efforts just might bring new jobs to this city.

That is the kind of hard work and commitment that will help Ironton not only bounce back, but prosper, in the future.

And cooperation like that doesn’t look bad on a city’s resume, either.