Economic summit on tap in Columbiana County

By D.A. WILKINSON

wilkinson@vindy.com

LISBON

Columbiana County leaders plan to have an economic summit in May to boost the local economy.

The first part of the summit will focus on programs designed to help elected officials at all levels.

The second portion will focus on funding opportunities for businesses and on international trade opportunities.

The project is a combined work of Salem Area Chamber of Commerce, Salem Area Industrial Development Corp., the Sustainable Opportunity Development Center, and the county commissioners.

Audrey Null, chamber director, said the economic summit is a follow-up to the chamber’s summit in 2008.

The idea is to have representatives from various governmental agencies available to provide information and help to local businesses.

“It’s a group setting,” Null said. “People can walk around and can talk with each of them.”

Officials said funding is available for small to large businesses in the Appalachian counties in Ohio.