July 2008 - The Missouri Department of Economic Development has developed county maps that will aid in the designation of enhanced enterprise zones. These maps were the result of discussions between the MEDC and DED during the most recent legislative session, and we are very pleased with the outcome.The county maps may be found on the Department's website by clicking here or the map at right.
The maps will streamline the cumbersome procedure previously required to establish an enhanced enterprise zone as much of the guesswork in developing an area that qualifies as an EEZ will be eliminated or reduced. Using the county maps, economic developers may see which census block groups would qualify, and which would not, allowing for a more accurate area designation. Of course, the final area must still be coordinated with DED, but the local economic developer now has a great tool for starting the discussion and looking at potentially eligible areas.
Kudos to all the folks at the Missouri Department of Economic Development that made this possible, and in particular to Sallie Hemenway, Ben Jones and John Mehner who originally helped develop the idea.
