For area small business operators, it was a chance to share thoughts and concerns with their U.S. congressman.

For the man who holds that office, it was a chance to meet constituents and cut the ribbon on his new Ironton office.

U.S. Sixth District Congressman Charlie Wilson was in Ironton Monday afternoon. He met with area businesspeople at a roundtable discussion at Melini Cucina restaurant and then walked across the street and officially dedicated his new office at Park

Avenue Apartments.

Wilson told the business people good things have happened since he took office in January. On the list of positive contributions was the 9/11 report.

“We need to be safe here and we can see what happened in London (England) over the weekend. This does provide technology to scan packages and boxes on planes and ocean-going vessels.”

At the roundtable meeting, Wilson fielded questions and comments on a range of subjects from energy to Medicare.

Later at his office dedication, Wilson said he was impressed with the business leadership of Lawrence County, saying he sees a good group of people he can work with.

“They’re so positive and so upbeat,” Wilson said. “The fact they want to take the bills we’ve passed and be able to use them to bring jobs to the area. I’m optimistic.”

Wilson said in the near future he plans to focus attention on rural health care, making higher education more affordable and Medicare.

The Ironton office is one of four across the district Wilson has opened. The others are in Canfield, Bridgeport and Marietta.