An Iowa State University project is helping regions within the state determine what types of economic development they can most successfully pursue.
ISU economist Dave Swenson calls it targeted industry research, and following work in southeast and southern Iowa, the focus will be on Council Bluffs and the surrounding counties.
"Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved."
As Iowa State researchers prepare to study the potential of southwest Iowa for attracting new business, some local economic development officials are welcoming a fresh look at the region.
He also is hoping to find greater objectivity in the study, something that isn't always present from elected officials who pitch companies on what they have to offer.
"Sometimes we need to hear things we don't want to," Mundt said. "When you hear it from somebody else that's fairly objective; that tends to carry a little more weight."
"Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved."