Documents - Growth Dimensions

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2007/2008 Annual Report
2007/2008 Board Members
President
Richard Van Evera
Vice President
Brad Anderson
Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley &
Van Evera
Belvidere National Bank & Trust
Treasurer
Jim Metz
Secretary
Kent Kniep
Belvidere School District 100
Poplar Grove State Bank
Don Banks
George Mutert
Belvidere National Bank & Trust
Franklin Wire & Display
City of Belvidere
Swedish American Hospital
Steve Nailor
Dean Breuer
Nailor & Associates
Commonwealth Edison
Rock Valley College
DareCloud Development
Rockford Health System
S.C.O.R.E.
Boone County Board
Sue Schrieber
Greg Brown
Dave Taylor
Ted A. Cowen
Bob Trojan
Jim Cox
National City Bank
NDK Crystal, Inc.
Village of Poplar Grove
Belvidere Township
Belvidere City Council
Boone County Board
Janyce Fadden/Eric Voyles
Craig Whyte
Bob Turner
V. Roger Day
Cathy Ward
Ed Fabish
Nicor Gas
John Wolf
14
Assessed Valuation Growth
15
2007 Audited Financial Statements &
2008 Budget
16-17
Investors & Financial Contributors
18
Organizational Structure:
19
Resources & Services Provided
20
Wolf Chevrolet
Northern Illinois University
Don Miller
OSF Saint Anthony Medical
Center
Amcore Bank
Jobs and Investments
Ken Zehnder
Michael Houselog
Scott Mortenson
4-13
Dave Turner
Debra Y. Cyborski
Belvidere School District 100
Committee Accomplishments & Goals
Rockford Linear
Citizen Volunteer
Belvidere Board of Realtors
2-3
Sam Overton
Rita Brodnax
North Boone School District 200
Karen Grieser
Messages from Our Leaders
Tom Myers
Frederic C. Brereton
Rockford Area Economic
Development Council
Table of Contents
Richard Zumwalt
Castle Bank
Growth Dimensions Mission & Objectives
The mission of Growth Dimensions is to provide a progressive and cooperative environment which improves the quality of
life by fostering Economic Opportunity and Personal Growth.
This is addressed by the following objectives:
• Targeting and focusing efforts to attract quality development that adds to the local tax base and contributes
to the local economy by creating higher paying jobs;
• Diversification of the property tax base away from residential and toward commercial and industrial
development;
• Increasing the amount of private sector investment in the communities;
• Improving the competitiveness of the communities to enhance economic development;
• Marketing the area effectively to potential investors, and;
• Advocating cooperative efforts to address common problems of the communities within the region.
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Documents A Word From our Partners in Progress
Frederic C. Brereton, Mayor
During this period of uncertainty, with residential growth slowing, the challenges will continue to be difficult, but the
opportunities for success will be worth the effort. We have more work to do in the area of economic development. We
are grateful for the partnership the City of Belvidere has with Growth Dimensions, its board of directors, staff and
members.
Congratulation upon completing another successful year. We look forward to continued success as we build a better
Belvidere.
Catherine C. Ward, Boone County Board Chairwoman
The challenges facing Boone County seem to grow daily as we struggle to meet the needs of an expanded population,
greater need for public safety and a receding economy.
While residential growth has slowed considerably in recent months and we've been hit hard with a reduction of
employees at some of our major employers, it's still critically important that we meet these challenges with vision and
sound decisions.
We know we are extremely fortunate that our county, the city of Belvidere, our villages and townships can rely on our
partnership with Growth Dimensions to create a climate for planned growth of homes, businesses and industries.
We applaud, especially, Growth Dimensions’ partnership with the Ag Tech Initiative, as our county's agriculture base
remains so solidly strong. During this challenging period, our farmers have been blessed with strong prices and record
crops, and their success is our success.
We look forward in the years ahead to continued work with Growth Dimensions and their talented, energetic staff to
provide us with the vision and energy we desperately need.
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Harvesting Our Future...
I would like to take this time to recognize the progress and accomplishments of the Growth
Dimensions organization through 2007. As we move forward, we also continue to identify the
steps that need to be taken to ensure successful economic development efforts in BelvidereBoone County in the years to come.
We continue to advance in our strategic initiative projects: AgTech, Tollway Station Point and the
Northern Illinois Commuter Transportation Initiative. The development opportunities near the
Tollway Station Point area have been protected through the creation of a boundary agreement
with the City of Belvidere and with the Village of Cherry Valley. A Growth Management Study
has also been completed by the City of Belvidere, Belvidere Park District, Boone County
Conservation District and Belvidere School District 100 to ensure that all of the partners are in collaboration as development
plans are put into place to manage the various aspects of the growth that Belvidere and Boone County continue to witness.
Again, I express sincere gratitude to over 40 private organizations and 12 governmental bodies who have been valuable
partners of Growth Dimensions. Over 115 individuals share their time on either the Growth Dimensions board of directors
and its various committees and management teams. Due to their time and commitment, those volunteers play a crucial role
in implementing plans that will lead to continued economic development achievements.
Overall, Growth Dimensions continues efforts at creating an environment that is conducive to private investment. There
were moderate investments in 2007, and we look forward to future development opportunities that will be granted to us in
our near future.
Richard Van Evera, Growth Dimensions’ President
“Harvesting a vision for sustainable growth and opportunity,” defines the advancements Growth
Dimensions is making with the organization’s strategic initiatives. This report will illustrate the progression in our AgTech Initiative and Tollway Station Point Project, both of which are designed to
attain sustainable growth and create opportunities.
The harvesting of our vision or “Dreams” requires an ongoing consensus building effort both local
and regional. A strong public/private partnership like Growth Dimensions is an ideal vehicle to
build that accord, thus we must continue to grow the strength and support of our organization as
we move forward.
To this end, we have our many partners to thank as they continue to embrace our vision for our representative communities
and the region. Working with such valuable investors and volunteers will lead to the harvest.
C. Mark Williams, Growth Dimensions’ Executive Director
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Documents2007/2008 Business Development Committee
Development and Implementation of Business Retention & Expansion Programs
⇒ Coordinated the Boone County Manufacturers’ Appreciation Week and hosted a breakfast program featuring speakers
discussing ways to implement the lean manufacturing process
⇒ Hosted a Belvidere-Boone County Enterprise Zone Training session with presenters from the Illinois Department of
Commerce and Economic Opportunity and KPMG Consulting
⇒ Hosted a Developer’s Forum to present an analysis of the City of Belvidere’s Growth Management Study
⇒ Worked with manufacturing companies on retention issues where assistance ranged from addressing needs and solutions
to city zoning amendments, enterprise zone certifications and other state incentives
Development of Implementation of Business Recruitment & Attraction Programs
Marketing, Information Management & Tradeshows
⇒ Hosted 2007 Boone County Developer’s Showcase
⇒ Working with developers to identify available development sites and
infrastructure needs in the Poplar Grove and North Boone area
⇒ Participated in I-39 Logistics Corridor Association
Business Development Committee
⇒ Participated in trade shows and networking events including the National
Association of Manufacturer’s Conference, International Council of Shop- Don Banks, Chair
ping Centers (ICSC) Showcase, ICSC Dealmakers Networking Reception, Belvidere National Bank & Trust
Association of Industrial Real Estate Brokers Showcase and Chicago Indus- Jeff Bockhop
trial Properties Industrial Real Estate Summit
Stenstrom General Contractors
⇒ Participated in 2007 Entrepreneurial Days, an international trade event
Mayor Fred Brereton
between Sweden and the U.S and assisted in coordinating an industry
City of Belvidere
cluster group focused on Automotive & Production Technology
Dean Breuer
ComEd
⇒ The new Growth Dimensions’ web site was launched in May of 2007
Mike Chamberlain
⇒ Completed marketing brochure and design and production of summary
City of Belvidere
brochures of the Labor Availability and Commuter Analysis Reports
Ted Cowen
Development and Implementation of Workforce Development Programs S.C.O.R.E.
Scot Dobbs
⇒ Partnered with the lead agencies involved in workforce development:
LCV
Workforce Connection and Boone and Winnebago Counties Workforce
Scott Greenlee
Investment Board, the Rockford and Belvidere Chambers of Commerce,
the Rockford Area Economic Development Council, Winnebago County, Poplar Grove State Bank
Abilities Center/TECHWORKS and Rock Valley College to hold a job fair Bonnie Heimbach
Northern Il. Tourism Development Office
in the efforts to help companies in this area recruit and train new
Brad Jansen
employees
AT&T
⇒ Worked with the lead agencies involved in workforce development:
Boone/Winnebago Workforce Investment Board regional strategic work- Park Johnston
force planning and economic development research study, as well as on the US Bank
Tom Lassandro
Advisory Board and Executive Committee for the Critical Skill Shortage
Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce
Initiative being administered by the Rock River Training Corporation as
Scott Mortensen
well as local businesses, educational institutions and government agencies
Castle Bank
Patrick Murphy
P. Murphy Insurance
Tracey Richter
Amcore Bank
Cathy Ward
Boone County Board
John Wolf
Wolf Chevrolet
Craig Whyte
Nicor
Belvidere Business Park Ground Breaking,
Belvidere Job & Career Fair,
(L-R) Carl Roppolo (Winchester Builders);
Don Williams
Franklin Wire & Display Booth
Mark Williams (Growth Dimensions);
Collaborative Solutions
Belvidere Mayor Fred Brereton
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Documents2007/2008 Business Development Projects
U of I Extension Center Ground Breaking
Pictured (L-R) John Papanos (JP Investment Realty);
Carl Roppolo (Winchester Builders); Earle Mailand
(U of I Ext.); Belvidere Mayor Fred Brereton, Mark
Williams (Growth Dimensions); Tom Lassandro
(Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce); Cathy
Ward (Boone County Board Chair)
BioVantage Fuels LLC
1201 Crosslink Parkway, Belvidere
Pacemaker Foods & Snyder Drugs Site
Poplar Grove
General Mills Plant
915 Pleasant Street, Belvidere
LandMark Speculative Building
LandMark Logistics Park, Belvidere
University of Illinois Extension Center
915 Alexandra Drive, Belvidere
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Documents 2007/2008 Tollway Station Point Project
Tollway Station Point is a Transit-Oriented Development Plan created for the purpose of organizing land development along
the I-90 corridor between Genoa Road west to the Boone/Winnebago county line. The development will call for Planned
Mixed Use Development, specifically, high-density, mixed-use, transit-oriented development. The most prominent portion
of the plan is the Tollway Station Transit Center located around a proposed interchange at I-90 and Irene Road. The Transit
Center will provide multiple transit options including commuter rail service linking Belvidere and Rockford to Chicago.
The implementation of the Tollway Station Point Project is being overseen by two stand alone committees:
(1) Tollway Station Point Committee: The committee is in charge of developing and implementing the strategic
development of the transit-oriented development center including land use planning, infrastructure development,
property assembly and interchange progress. (Known as the Flora Neighborhood Plan)
(2) Northern Illinois Commuter Transportation Initiative (NICTI): The Initiative is in charge of providing oversight and management of conducting the necessary feasibility studies to bring commuter transportation alternatives to
the region, including commuter rail service.
Tollway Station Point Committee-Major Accomplishments in 2007
⇒ City of Belvidere and the Village of Cherry Valley adopted a Development
Boundary Agreement at Wheeler Road, south of I-90. This eliminates the
risk of having development occur that conflicts with the Flora Neighborhood Plan (Tollway Station Land Use Plan) as a result of developers bidding
Cherry Valley against Belvidere through pre-annexation agreements.
⇒ Testified in protest to the Village of Pecatonica (community forty miles
west) regarding its consideration to execute a pre-annexation agreement with
a developer for a large single-family residential development project that
would have greatly diminished, if not destroyed, the integrity of the Tollway
Station Point section of the Flora Neighborhood Plan.
⇒ Northern Illinois University Regional Development Institute through contracts with the City of Belvidere, Belvidere Park District, Belvidere Unit
School District 100 and the Boone County Conservation District completed
a Growth Management Study focusing on growth management planning
and development impact fees. The study provides a detailed analysis of the
projected impacts of land development on public services and public capital
needs based upon the densities and land use capacity called for in the Flora
Neighborhood Plan.
⇒ Design and construction of the Irene Road/I-90 Interchange advanced with
having the Illinois Toll Highway Authority awarding bids to construct a west
bound exit at Irene Road. Further discussions advanced on the remaining
three quadrants of the interchange.
Developer’s Forum & Growth Management
Study Presentation- March 11th, 2008
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Tollway Station Point Project
Management Team
Dave Taylor, TSP Chair
Boone County Board
Charles Abraham
Illinois Department of Transportation
Bunny Anderson
Illinois Tollway Authority
Gail Bennett
Flora Township
Mayor Fred Brereton
City of Belvidere
Senator Brad Burzynski
Bryan Davis
Congressman Manzullo’s Office
Craig Lawler
City of Belvidere Public Works
Rich Lundin
Boone County Engineer
Gary McIntyre
RATS
John McNamara
Rockford College
Steve Nailor
Nailor & Associates
Adam Tegen
Boone County Planning Department
Ken Terrinoni
Boone County
Bob Turner
Belvidere Township
Representative Ron Wait
Cathy Ward
Boone County Board
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NICTI Alternatives Analysis Goals and Objectives
Alternatives Analysis Goals and Objectives
These goals and objectives serve as criteria to measure which alternatives are most effective, and provide the basis for eventually eliminating alternatives. The one alternative that is selected for best achieving these goals and objectives in a cost
effective manner is called the Locally Preferred Alternative.
Goal 1: Enhance Mobility Through and Within the Corridor
• Expand mobility opportunities for all users moving through and within the Elgin to Rockford Corridor
• Provide access to jobs and job markets in the corridor
• Provide for growth in travel demand
• Reduce peak period traffic demands on I-90
• Provide additional level of corridor/area security specifically relating to
evacuation
Goal 2: Provide Efficient, High Quality Transit Improvements
• Provide high quality modal alternatives
• Attract new transit riders from private vehicles, particularly single-occupancy
vehicles
Goal 3: Develop a Cost Effective Transportation Solution
• Provide an efficient transit system that minimizes costs per new transit rider
• Minimize construction, right-of-way and operating and maintenance costs
• Leverage federal and state funding
Goal 4: Support Business, Transportation and Residential Investments
• Support previous business investments in the Elgin to Rockford Corridor
• Support previous public investment in transportation infrastructure
• Support public and private investment in residential communities
• Support connections between major transportation systems and job centers
Goal 5: Support Effective Land Use and Development Patterns
• Promote a reliable transit system that allows efficient, effective land use
development patterns and facilitates the highest and best use of properties
adjacent to transit facilities
• Provide consistency with Long Range Transportation Plans and land use plans
• Encourage economic growth
• Discourage unplanned growth
• Enhance quality of life
a
Goal 6: Provide a Cleaner, Safer Environment
• Support regional goals for: cleaner air and water, more efficient energy use and
safer and healthier environment
• Increase the safety and security of the transportation system for motorized and
non-motorized users
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NICTI Executive Committee
Dave Taylor, Chair
Growth Dimensions
Charles Abraham
Illinois Department of
Transportation
Mayor Fred Brereton
City of Belvidere
Scott Christiansen
Winnebago County
Stephen Ernst
Rockford Area Transportation Study
Janyce Fadden
Rockford Area Economic
Development Council
*Jim Johnson
Rockfrd Mass Transit District
Rich McVinnie
Rockford Mass Transit District
Mayor Larry Morrissey
City of Rockford
*Jim Ryan
City of Rockford
Joe Vanderwerff
Winnebago County
*Cathy Ward
Boone County Board
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Timeline & Progress of NICTI Alternatives Analysis
Where We Are Today:
A significant amount of work has been occurring behind the scenes since the public meetings in 2007. The alternatives that
moved forward after Screen 1 are carefully being evaluated based on criteria such as ridership forecasts, operating plans, cost
effectiveness and financial feasibility, analysis of social and environmental impacts and supportive land uses. This evaluation
step is considered to be Screen 2 of the Alternatives Analysis process; the Alternatives Analysis follows the Federal Transit
Administration (FTA) process for New Starts, (See below Project Timeline). In this phase of the project, additional
engineering analysis is developed to become more certain of the implementation realities of the alternatives.
As the Alternative Analysis progresses through the screening process and the evaluation of criteria are applied, options within
the wide range of alternatives are eliminated until there is a solution—a Locally Preferred Alternative (LPA). It is anticipated
that the next round of public meetings will be held in early summer 2008. The details will be posted at www.nicti.net when
they are finalized.
Once a Locally Preferred Alternative has been selected, very specific details of analysis are needed for the FTA to consider
the project for further steps.
PROJECT TIMELINE
Evaluate & Screen
Alternatives
Initiate
Data
Project Collection
P
U
B
Identify
Possible
Alternatives
Screen 1
Define
Project
L
I
C
PART A
I
Draft
Select
Envmntl. Final EIS
Locally
Record
& Prelim.
Impact
Preferred
Of
Screen 2 Alternative Statement Engineering Decision
N
V
O
V E
A N A L Y S I S
Environmental
START
WE ARE HERE
8
M
PART C
PART B
A L T E R N A T I V E S
L
E
N
T
Future Phases
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2007/2008 AgTech Accomplishments & Goals
AgTech Executive Committee
The AgTech Initiative encompasses the following functions and programs:
New Uses Entrepreneur Development Center (NUEDC): NUEDC is
the core component of the AgTech Initiative. Northern Illinois University
staffs and operates the NUEDC through an SBA and DOE funded contract with the City of Belvidere. The NUEDC is currently housed at
Growth Dimensions’ office located at 200 South State Street, Belvidere,
Illinois. (815) 547-4252. Growth Dimensions also partners with the Illinois Technology Development Alliance (ITDA) for additional contract
and client
management services.
New Uses
Information and
Entrepreneur
Development
Task 1
Biomass Product
Development and
Commercialization
Support Services
Task 2
Competitive Capital
Award Program
Task 3
“Center Without
Walls” - Consortium of Partners
and Stakeholders
Task 1 - Develop and implement Biomass Product Development and
Commercialization Support Services
Task 2 - Develop and implement a Competitive Capital Award Program
to provide qualified clients with funds on a cost-share basis to commercialize agriculture-based materials into alternative industrial products
Task 3 - Develop a “Center Without Walls” - a networked consortium of
Partners and Stakeholders to increase collaboration, opportunity recognition and overall potential market penetration
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*Greg Brown, Chair
DareCloud Development
Mayor Fred Brereton
City of Belvidere
Dr. John Lewis
Northern Illinois University Outreach
Cathy Ward
Boone County Board
Mark Williams
Growth Dimensions
Ken Zehnder
Northern Illinois University
AgTech Advisory Committee
*Greg Brown, Chair
DareCloud Development
Mayor Fred Brereton
City of Belvidere
Einar Forsman
Rock Valley College
Dr. John Lewis
Northern Illinois University
Tom Matya
Zea Mays Holdings
Randy McIntyre
Kerry Foods
John Noel
Illinois Technology Development Alliance
Cathy Ward
Boone County
Mark Williams
Growth Dimensions
Dr. Promod Vohra
Northern Illinois University
Ken Zehnder
Northern Illinois University
Dept. of Energy Commercialization
Review Team
Greg Brown
Dare Cloud Development
Ann Marie Cain
Boone County Farm Bureau
Dan Cataldi
Rock Valley College
Tom McDunn
EIGERlab
John Noel
Illinois Technology Development Alliance
Dr. Seth Snyder
Argonne National Laboratory
Mark Williams
Growth Dimensions
Gerry Zielinski
Northern Illinois University
Norb Ziemer
AgTech/NUEDC
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Objective: To expand NUEDC client advancement in our focused biobased product sectors.
Bio-based lubricant: AgTech has been nurturing and is currently developing a project with Chemtool, Inc. within the
biolubricant sector of the market. This opportunity has significant market potential and can positively impact demand for
agricultural crops like soybeans.
Bio-based chemical: AgTech has coached and supported Belvidere-based Deveco through this the development process.
Deveco has, in turn, developed a proprietary line of bio-based products (including glass and multi-surface cleaners) which
has been named the SoClean product line and is completing the development of two additional bio-based products. Deveco has begun to distribute SoClean products at consumer points including the Belvidere Pacemaker store. AgTech continues to support and encourage Deveco and other innovation-oriented companies and entrepreneurs for new product development in biobased chemicals.
Bio-based foams: AgTech has continued communication with producers of the biobased foam ingredients in preparation
for anticipated new product opportunities. Some of these may include composite applications in which biobased foams
could provide a functional component to the overall composite system.
Bio-based Plastics and Composites: NUEDC has continued to nurture the development of biobased plastic and composite products. The Plastics Laboratory at Northern Illinois University has been supportive of this process and is facilitating the biobased product testing and performance verification necessary for commercialization. Corn-based starch resins
have been tested along with DDGS –an ethanol co-product- as a functional filler. Future product lines may include building trim materials, consumable plastic products, packaging materials, furniture and biodegradable golf tees.
Biofuels: AgTech NUEDC has continued its efforts to nurture the commercialization of biofuels and bioenergy opportunities. NUEDC is concurrently spearheading the task of identifying and exploring new use opportunities for the glycerin
co-product of biodiesel production. NUEDC is also working with technology based organizations and the agricultural
production community on leveraging the latent energy value stored in underutilized biomass crops and products, including
DDGS and corn stover.
Announcement
BioVantage Fuels LLC, a biodiesel product commercialization and production company began the investment and
marketing strategy this past year and then broke ground in September 2007. BioVantage is expected to start-up the biodiesel facility for operations during its biodiesel production in Belvidere during the 2nd quarter of 2008.
Brian Coker of BioVantage inside the
biodiesel facility
BioVantage Groundbreaking (L-R) Brad Anderson (Belvidere Bank ); Richard Van Evera
(BSLBV ); Mark Williams (Growth Dimensions);
Cathy Ward (Boone County Board); Rep. Ron
Wait; Chris Kelson (BioVantage); Larry Anderson
(Boone County Farm Bureau); John Lewis (NIU
Outreach); Rep. Dave Winters; Norb Ziemer
(AgTech )
10
Chris Kelson of BioVantage accompanied
by a local agricultural producer
and process engineer
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Objective: To expand NUEDC/Northern Illinois University support network required to form the technology
and business platforms which will underpin long- term growth in biobased products.
AgTech has reached out to researchers and subject matter experts including experts at the USDA NCAUR center in
Peoria, the USDA Forest Products Laboratory, Argonne National Laboratory and the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign.
Dr. Tatara, Director of the NIU Plastics Laboratory, has been very supportive in the materials testing of bioplastics.
In working with AgTech, Dr. Tatara has continued to develop the manufacturing processes for biobased plastic
blends using DDGS. This collaboration has also included participation by the USDA in Brookings, SD for ethanol
co-products technology development.
On a local front, AgTech has maintained collaborative relationships with local education arms including Northern
Illinois University, Rock Valley College and Rockford College.
Objective: To develop a long-range renewable resource strategy.
AgTech has continued relationship development with several key contacts including Argonne National Lab, Adkins
Energy, and others in efforts to nurture opportunities in the bioenergy arena. AgTech is currently involved with client
projects centered around harvesting underutilized biomass and leveraging its caloric content for processed heat and
energy. The implementation of such innovative approaches has the potential to impact the profitability of both
manufacturing and agricultural production operations.
AgTech has also contacted and met with individuals who may have an interest in innovative, renewable energy collaboration. The collaboration may extend to the Freedom Field initiative of Rockford, to Northern Illinois University
and NIU Outreach, as well as to manufacturers and businesses in a regional corridor from the Chicagoland area to the
Rock River Valley region.
AgTech is currently nurturing the efforts of a biodiesel startup venture.
Objective: To identify funding sources.
AgTech Initiative efforts have resulted in the award of an AgriFIRST grant for a feasibility study that can address new
uses for glycerin, a key by-product generated from the production of biodiesel.
AgTech partners with the Illinois Technology Development Alliance (ITDA) to showcase clients to its venture capital
networks.
Priority Goals for 2008
1. Continue the management of the Biomass Product Commercialization Awards program.
2. Explore opportunities to continue funding for the staffing and operations of the NUEDC
3. Host a regional symposium to gauge the capacity of the region for green business development
4. Complete a value stream mapping of the regions efforts in alternative energy and biomass product arena
5. Expand the capacity for developing and commercializing biofuels intellectual property
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Objective: To formalize and implement marketing strategies.
⇒ Together with Growth Dimensions, conducted a symposium on new use products and technologies from corn
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and soybeans and made a peer-reviewed presentation to the Department of Energy in Golden, CO
Presented on behalf of the Growth Dimensions’ AgTech Initiative at the Greater Rockford Airport
Presented on biodiesel at the South Suburban Mayors & Managers Association
Participated in the 2008 i BIO Industry & Market Conference in Chicago
Explored bio-renewable energy opportunities at the IL Renewable Energy Fair
Participated in the “The Role of R &D in Agriculture and Related Industries: Today and Tomorrow” at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
Participated in the Chicago MIT Entrepreneurship Forum: “Head On: Energy and Our Future”
Participated in the Jo Daviess County Economic Development summit with focus on renewable energy
Presented to the Illinois Global Partnerships
Participated in the Growth Dimensions’ Manufacturers’ Appreciation Event
Participated in the Manufacturers’ Matchmaking event hosted by McHenry County Business Acceleration and
Innovation Center
Participated in the Biodiesel Quality Seminar hosted at EIGERlab in Rockford
Participated in the Milwaukee Renewable Energy Summit
Participated in the Chicago Farmers Group event in Naperville, IL (topic: Renewable Fuels)
Keynote presentation at the Belvidere Chamber of Commerce Annual Event on “Going Green”
Presentation at the Belvidere Chamber of Commerce’s “Breakfast Before Business”
Presented at the 2007 Swedish-American Entrepreneurial Days “BioEnergy” session
Objective: To establish the DOE funded Growth Dimensions’ Biomass Competitive Grant Program.
The Biomass Product Commercialization Award Program was established and the first round of requests for proposals was solicited. Proposals are currently being reviewed for selection and award. Overall Growth Dimensions has
authority from the U.S. Department of Energy to award over $500,000 for projects that lead to marketable biomass
products or processes. All awards will have a $100,000 maximum. Each project must have a cash or in-kind nonfederal cost-share equal to $1.60 for every $1.00 of DOE funds.
The funds allocated to the award program will be awarded to companies as a subcontract. Growth Dimensions will
offer at least two solicitation rounds for funding. After the companies submit their proposals, a rigorous review process will take place to ensure that the appropriate companies are chosen on a merit basis.
Growth Dimensions approved the following projects for funding this past year:
BioVantage Fuels, LLC: Proposal to conduct a feasibility study to determine the viability of producing biodiesel
from an innovative new waste oil source
Chemtool Biolube Division: Proposal to conduct a biobased lubricant market opportunity assessment and develop
the criteria for the creation of biobased specifications for key market sectors
Packer Engineering: Proposal to commercialize farm-scale biomass reactor producing syngas
N-Ovation: (Pending) Proposal for developing a pilot plant to produce nitrogen fertilizer
I-90 BRIDGE: Proposal to assess the readiness of the greater northern Illinois region to adopt and commercialize
new biomass technologies and alternative energy methods
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2007/2008 Riverfront Development
Kishwaukee Riverfront Development Plan
A Glance at our Goals & Accomplishments...
⇒ Completed path access from Prairie Fields Sports Park to U.S. Route 20 along Fairgrounds Road
⇒ Completed acquisition of rights-of-way and plans for the extension of the path from State Street to Beloit Road
and the project is expected to be completed in mid-late 2009
⇒ Completed construction of path from Legion Field easterly to Main Street Bridge
⇒ Continue to explore path development along the Brownsfield site, including a pedestrian bridge across the Kish-
waukee River east of General Mills and connecting to Lawrenceville Road. Clean up efforts underway for the
Brownsfield site.
⇒ Continue to develop path development plans in conjunction with the River Run development in the West Hills
Neighborhood
⇒ Pursue completion of the path along the south bank of the Kishwaukee River from Doty Park to Main Street
⇒ The Committee, in cooperation with the Belvidere Park District and local schools raised $6,786.06 during the
19th and final Annual Kishwalk. Students in grades three thru five participated in the event. In 19 years, the event
has raised nearly $160,000 for efforts towards path development throughout Belvidere.
Riverfront Development Committee
2007 Kishwalk Pool Party, kids with Jean Twyning,
Riverfront Development committee member.
13
Richard Van Evera, Chair
Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley & Van Evera
Brent Anderson
City of Belvidere
Mayor Fred Brereton
City of Belvidere
Senator Brad Burzynski
Gina Del Rose
Boone County Planning Department
Kim Ellingson
City of Belvidere
Dan Kane
Boone County Conservation District
Bill Luhman
Citizen Volunteer
Peggy Malone
Boone County Board
Bev Moore
Side By Side Cycle
Dan Roddewig
Belvidere Park District
Joan Sage
Comcast
Bob Turner
Belvidere Township
Jean Twyning
Belvidere Park District
Representative Ron Wait
Cathy Ward
Boone County Board
John Wolf
Wolf Chevrolet
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Jobs & Investments
Belvidere / Boone County Enterprise Zone:
Growth Dimensions administers the Belvidere-Boone County Enterprise Zone, which provides financial incentives for
the development and expansion of commercial and industrial facilities. This past year, fifty-six commercial and nine
industrial projects were started or are under construction that will result in the creation of 201 jobs and will generate over
$58 million of capital investments in the Belvidere-Boone County Enterprise Zone.
Industrial Related Investments included:
BioVantage, Youngberg Industries, Corrugated Metals, Landmark Development, McDonnell Components, Central
Commodities, United Contracting, General Mills, Central Rubber.
Commercial related investments included:
Ruff Cuts Pet Grooming, Subway, Walker Insurance, Walgreen’s, McDonald’s, Road Ranger, Barr’s Flowers, Physician’s
Immediate Care, C&J Goad, Inc., Costa Confections, Happy Wok, Cloud Nine, Yolanda’s Bakery, Belvidere Community
Building, Apollo, Fiesta Market, Potting Shed, Flower Bin, Rock River Training, Supermercado Guana Juateto, V Land
Builders, Belvidere Physical Therapy, Hair Nook, Stylehouse Furniture, Belvidere Dental Designs, Belvidere National Bank,
Winchester Builders, Starbucks, Dari-Ripple, Lifescape Community Services, State Street Auto Rebuilders, Jesus Upholstery,
El Mocajete Restaurant, Wicked Brew, Sweetery, 1st United Methodist Church, Lung Fung, Sherwin Williams, Virtual Insanity, Brereton Inc., Done Rite Tax Service, DiCello’s, Jack Wolf Auto Mall, Belvidere Spine and Posture, Purk’s Place, You &
Me, United Contracting, Discover Me Travel, Southtown Ventures LLC, Ollman Ernst Architects, Verizon Wireless, Boone
County Museum, Francisco Medina, Interserve, Quest Machinery.
2007 Business Investment Announcements
General Mills/Green Giant: The state of Illinois announced an almost
$3.8 million business investment package for General Mills to help
expand its current Belvidere facility and bring in a new frozen production
line. The project will create 50 new jobs over the next two years and keep
500 jobs in the plant.
Interserve: The local manufacturer that assembles displays for home
improvement stores and building material suppliers consolidated their
operation to Belvidere’s LandMark Logistics Park. Interserve is
constructing a 42,000 square foot facility in the business park, which is
expected to be complete and occupied by summer 2008. The company
employs 70 people during their peak season.
Corrugated Metals: Infrastructure Defense Technologies, Inc., a
division of Corrugated Metals of Belvidere completed a 40,000 square
foot addition to its existing facility on Morreim Drive. The new addition
will allow for increased production of IDT’s flagship product, THE
METALITH, which is an anti-terrorism barrier that protects American
military personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan. The project was completed in
October 2008
BioVantage Fuels, LLC: BioVantage announced the opening of a five
million gallon per year biodiesel facility. BioVatantage is a start up
company with the goal of developing cost-effective renewable fuels and
seeks to leverage partnerships with the AgTech Initiative, City of
Belvidere, local farming community and universities to create sustainable,
environmentally friendly energy solutions.
14
General Mills Plant, Belvidere, IL
Interserve Facility
LandMark Logistics Park
Corrugated Metals Expanded Facility
3575 Morreim Drive, Belvidere
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Assessed Valuation
$ of ASSESSED VALUE
INDUSTRIAL ASSESSED VALUE TRENDS
$80,000,000
$70,000,000
$60,000,000
$50,000,000
$40,000,000
$30,000,000
$20,000,000
$10,000,000
$0
97 998 999 000 001 002 003 004 005 006 007
19
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
YEAR
The assessed value of property is set by
the township assessor and is based on a
number of factors including the market
value of real estate and improvements.
The assessed valuation is a critical
measure of development growth, a
community’s fiscal soundness and its
ability to attract new economic growth
and investments. Taxing districts including municipalities, school districts,
county and special districts levy taxes
based on the level of equalized assessed
valuation (EAV) of an area. As the
assessed valuation of an area continues
to increase, the tax burden of each entity is spread out, which allows the tax
rate to become stabilized.
Over the past ten years Industrial Assessed Valuation for Boone County
increased 97% even with a slight decrease this past year.
ASSESSED VALUE DISTRIBUTION
78%
RES
Commercial Assessed Value also increased 97% over the past ten years
with a 6.8% increase over the past year.
8%
COM
RESIDENTIAL
8%
AG/OTHER
6%
IND
COMMERCIAL
However, even with the steady
increases in commercial and industrial
assessed values, residential values
account for 78% of the total distribution for Boone County.
INDUSTRIAL
AG/OTHER
Therefore, continuing to diversify the
property tax base through industrial
and commercial expansion remains a
strong objective for Growth Dimensions.
$120,000,000
$100,000,000
$80,000,000
$60,000,000
$40,000,000
Assessed valuation data obtained
through the cooperation of the Boone
County Supervisor of Assessments
Office and the Belvidere Township
Assessor's Office.
$20,000,000
20
07
20
05
20
03
20
01
19
99
$0
19
97
$ of Assessed Value
COM M ERCIAL ASSESSED VALUE TRENDS
Year
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2007 Audited Financial Statements
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
as of December 31, 2007
ASSETS
Current Assets
Checking/Savings
BNB Business Now
CD Castle Bank
Petty Cash
Total Checking/Savings
Other Assets
101,757
21,916
100
123,773
Office Equip & Furniture
17,558
A/D Office Equip & Furn
-6,038
Prepaid Expenses
Total Other Assets
TOTAL ASSETS
5,029
16,549
$140,322
LIABILITIES & NET ASSETS
Liabilities
Current Liabilities
Accounts Payable
Accounts Payable
Total Accounts Payable
Other Current Liabilities
Deferred Revenue
Payroll Liabilites
Total Other Current Liabilities
1,569
1,569
32,000
224
32,224
Total Current Liabilities
Total Liabilities
Net Assets
Unrestricted
106,529
Total Net Assets
106,529
TOTAL LIAB & NET ASSETS
33,793
33,793
$140,322
STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES
REVENUES
Contributions—Private Sector
Contributions—Public Sector
Grants/Reimbursements
Special Events
Occupancy Reimbursement
Interest Income
Miscellaneous Reimbursements
Total Receipts
EXPENSES
Salaries and Wages
Payroll Taxes
Travel
Hosting/Special Events
Utilities—Telephone
Office Supplies
Rent
Insurance
Training and Conference
Postage
Equipment Costs
Equipment Repair
Advertising and Marketing
Strategic Planning
Printing-Reproduction
Dues and Subscriptions
Audit—Legal
Janitorial & Building Upkeep
Government Relations Services
Professional Services
Personnel Benefits
AgTech DOE
Depreciation
Payroll Expense
Other
Total Disbursements
2007
80,300
111,500
38,966
46,000
5,746
2,193
0
$284,705
2006
$77,475
138,805
88,896
49,805
5,400
8,343
1,062
$369,786
135,813
136,326
10,889
6,204
44,985
13,946
5,057
15,173
33,276
4,760
1,688
1,197
2,081
15,301
9,928
3,840
53,804
12,826
3,942
15,130
15,445
735
2,045
1,326
2,171
2,099
2,770
1,971
8,743
4,222
7,754
4,172
641
1,207
$326,120
1,922
4,748
0
6,162
1,404
160
1,621
0
574
3,925
49,655
1,866
409
8,562
$336,353
The financial statements of the Organization have been prepared
on the accrual basis of accounting and accordingly reflect all significant receivables, payables, and other liabilities.
16
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2008 BUDGET
RECEIPTS
Private Sector Membership
Public Sector Membership
Total Membership
Grant Advan/Reimbursments
CFNIL GD Opportunity Fund
DOE Grant Reimbursments
Total Grant Advan/Reimbursments
Other Reimbursements
Interest Receipts
c.d.
m.m.
interest other
Total Interest Receipts
Other Receipts
NUEDC Rent
Special Events
Total Other Receipts
TOTAL RECEIPTS
EXPENSE
Wages and Saleries
Payroll Taxes
Insurance
Office Supply-Copy
Postage
Equip & Furn
Equip Repair
Office Lease
Office/Build Improvement
Janitorial
Utilities
Telephone/Comm
Adv. & Marketing
Professional Services
Government Relations
Accounting
Printing
Membership & Subscript.
Travel
Training/Conferences
Misc.
Personnel Benefits
Hosting/Networking/Events
Annual Dinner
Other Hosting/Net/Events
Total Hosting/Networking/Events
AgTech DOE
NIU Contractual Cost Share
TOTAL EXPENSE
Remaining on Track to Make a Difference
A Glance Back at Our 2007 Celebration
120,000.00
135,000.00
255,000.00
12,000.00
871,540.60
883,540.60
1,500.00
1,000.00
3,000.00
600.00
4,600.00
The 2007 Growth Dimensions’ annual dinner meeting,
"On Track to Make a Difference" showcased General
Mills-Green Giant's presence in the community for
nearly 105 years and reflected how the company has
grown to a level that adds significant value to Belvidere
and Boone County. Most recently, General Mills-Green
Giant has expanded their operations into a new snack
food line, which will also result in the creation of
approximately 50 new jobs.
1,800.00
45,000.00
46,800.00
1,191,440.60
The event also glanced at the past year's accomplishments and successes of the Growth Dimensions’
organization, including a significant gain in job growth,
capital investments and expansion projects by major
employers in Belvidere.
155,169.62
13,111.84
31,600.00
5,000.00
2,200.00
2,000.00
3.000.00
16,000.00
700.00
1,200.00
7,500.00
6,000.00
12,000.00
12,000.00
Dean Foods announced the expansion of its ice cream
hardening equipment, along with the moving of it's
Stroh's Ice Cream production operation from Detroit
to the Belvidere Plant.
Since 2001, the Industrial Assessed Valuation for
Boone County increased 97% and Commercial 55%.
Diversification of the tax base through the expansion
of the industrial and commercial tax base remains one
of our highest objectives.
-
Kevin Schoen, General Mills vice president of
manufacturing served as the keynote speaker and talked
about personal leadership being a key element to the
success and vision of an organization.
3,000.00
4,000.00
2,500.00
8,000.00
5,000.00
500.00
4,655.09
"Your personal leadership does matter, you can make a
difference. Your vision, belief in people and state of
readiness will serve you well as each of you utilize your
God given talents in this wonderful community you are
a part of," stated Schoen. "Through your personal
leadership you will also leave a legacy to the
generations of community leaders that will follow you."
36,000.00
5,000.00
50,000.00
793,656.48
43,268.00
1,173,061.03
Growth Dimensions continues to thank their valuable
partners that help make the region’s economic
development visions a reality.
17
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2007/2008 Member Investors...Your Support Makes it All Possible
Private Sector Member Investors
Platinum Category
Private Sector cont.
Associate Member Category
Belvidere National Bank & Trust Company
Castle Bank
General Mills
OSF St. Anthony Medical Center
Rockford Health Systems
Swedish American Health Systems
Barrick, Switzer, Long, Balsley & Van Evera
Belvidere Rotary
Boone County Shopper
Gambino Realtors
Rockford Register Star
Tobin & Ramon
Youngberg Industries
Gold Category
Amcore Bank
Chrysler Corporation
ComEd
DareCloud Development
NDK Crystal
National City Bank
Poplar Grove State Bank
Public Sector Member Investors
Belvidere Township
Boone County Board
Boone Township
Caledonia Township
City of Belvidere
Flora Township
Northern Illinois University
Poplar Grove Township
Rock Valley College
Belvidere Community Unit School District 100
Village of Poplar Grove
Silver Category
Blackhawk Bank
Franklin Wire Works
Sjostrom & Sons
Bronze Category
ArvinMeritor
AT&T
Bradley University/IMEC
Dean Foods
Grupo Antolin
Jack Wolf Cadillac GMC Jeep
Landmark Development
McClure Engineering
McDonald’s of Belvidere
Nicor
Poplar Grove Airmotive
R&D Thiel
Richard L. Johnson Associates
Rockford Area Association of Realtors
Schlichting & Sons Excavating
Stenstrom General Contractor
Stillman Bank
The BankCenter
Title Underwriters
Union Savings Bank
WREX-TV
Williams Manny
Youngberg Industries
Cooperative Agencies
Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce
Belvidere/Boone County Regional Planning Commission
Belvidere Township Assessor’s Office
Boone County Assessor’s Office
Community Foundation of Northern Illinois
Greater Rockford Airport Authority
Illinois Technology Development Alliance
Northern Illinois Tourism Development Office
NIU- Center for Governmental Studies
Rockford Area Economic Development Council
Granting Organization Partner
Community Foundation of Northern Illinois
*Membership listing reflects contributions received from
October 2006 thru April 2008.
18
NUEDC
Project Director
Dr. John Lewis
Northern Illinois
University
NUEDC
Ag Tech
Project Management Team
Greg Brown, Chairman
Center Director
Norbert Ziemer
Business Development
Committee
Don Banks, Chair
Tollway Station Point
Project Management Team
Dave Taylor, Chairman
Executive Director
C. Mark Williams
Office Manager
Donna McDaniel
Growth Dimensions
Staff Organizational Chart
Fundraising Committee
Steve Nailor, Chairman
Associate Director
Kelly Galluzzo
Riverfront Development
Committee
Richard Van Evera, Chairman
Executive Committee
Board of Directors
GROWTH DIMENSIONS FOR BELVIDERE-BOONE COUNTY,
Organizational Charts
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Resources & Services Provided Through Growth Dimensions
Growth Dimensions, serving as a public/private organization focusing on promoting the Belvidere-Boone County area for
new economic growth and development, provides the following resources and services to promote and market the area for
new investments:
• Site Selector Information Database: Growth Dimensions compiles and maintains current data on the Location One
Information System, a site selection information database administered by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. The database contains pertinent data on available sites and buildings allowing Growth Dimensions to generate rapid responses to prospect inquiries.
• Monthly Investor’s Update:
Growth Dimensions produces a monthly “Investor’s Update” in order to provide
investors with better access to information and current events as it relates to Growth Dimensions’ activities as well as
news items about our investors. The newsletter is electronically delivered by email.
• Technical Assistance: Growth Dimensions serves as a clearinghouse for businesses to consult with for potential
financial and business assistance programs available. Assistance is further provided to business prospects in the site
selection process.
• Enterprise Zone Administration: Growth Dimensions administers the Belvidere/Boone County Enterprise Zone.
• World Wide Web: Information on Belvidere and Boone County and development opportunities are included in our
web site www.growthdimensions.org. The web page and information is in constant need of refinement and updating.
• Advocate and Liaison Role: Growth Dimensions serves as an advocate with developers to troubleshoot issues that
might impact their development plans. We maintain close contact with city, village and county officials and
development staff regarding development codes and standards. Growth Dimensions is also the lead liaison for manufacturing companies in Boone County, regarding public sector issues and the delivery of economic development
Services.
• Regional Development Partner: Growth Dimensions is a regional partner representing Belvidere-Boone County to
the region through participation with organizations such as the Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce, Rockford Area
Economic Development Council, Rockford Chamber of Commerce, I-39 Logistics Corridor Association, Rock River
Valley Entrepreneurship Center, the City of Rockford, RATS, Northern Illinois Commuter Rail Initiative, Northwest
Chicago Rockford International Airport, Rock River Valley Regional Partners, Illinois Enterprise Zone Association and
the Illinois Development Council.
• Business Retention Visits: Growth Dimensions partners with ComEd to complete 25 business visitations per year
using the ComEd-sponsored Synchronist Business Information System.
• Business Recruitment: Growth Dimensions leverages its marketing efforts including trade shows, expos, and tactical
plans with regional organizations and allies including Rock River Valley Regional Partners, I-39 Logistics Corridor,
ComEd, Nicor Gas and DCEO. Growth Dimensions leads an alliance of the Belvidere Area Chamber of Commerce
and Northern Illinois Tourism Development Office in a tactical approach to recruit expanding commercial businesses
in the Fox River Valley Region.
• Host Events and Developer Tours: Growth Dimensions conducts periodic workshops and hosts meetings with
area developers, banks and commercial realtors to keep them apprised of development opportunities in the BelvidereBoone County area.
• Special Project Management: Growth Dimensions coordinates and manages strategic initiative projects identified in
the Belvidere-Boone County Economic Development Strategic Plan. These projects will greatly benefit the entire
region. They include:
°
New Uses AgTech Initiative
°
New Uses Entrepreneur Development Center (NUEDC)
°
Tollway Station Point Project
°
Northern Illinois Commuter Transportation Initiative (NICTI)
20
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Growth Dimensions for Belvidere and Boone County
200 S. State Street, Belvidere, IL 61008
815-547-4252 Fax: 815-547-7654
www.growthdimensions.org
info@growthdimensions.org