Robert Johnson Addresses Local Business Leaders

The chamber of commerce held its’ Quarterly Membership Luncheon on Monday. With more than 75 business owners and citizens in attendance, the chamber presented Robert Johnson, Economic Development Specialist with the Texas Main Street Program as the guest speaker.

"Growth is going to happen whether you want it to or not," Johnson told the audience. "It is important to grow sensibly."

Sensible growth, according to Johnson, is a multi-faceted endeavor that needs to have balance between new development and using available space. Using available space, for communities such as Wills Point, means taking advantage of the historical buildings.

"We are tied to our past," Johnson explained. "Historical buildings are an asset that should be capitalized on."

Capitalizing includes offering incentives for the right kinds of businesses to move in. The right business will attract traffic to other businesses, and ultimately attract more new businesses.

Johnson also stressed the importance of small businesses in a community. One of the key statistics he provided was $.60 of every dollar spent at a sole proprietorship will remain in the city. Less than half that amount spent at large discounters remains in the community.

Johnson also encouraged making applications for Community Block Grants that can be used for projects to update and beautify the city.

"A city’s signs and landscaping should point visitors to the business district," he said.

The same goes for the individual businesses, he added, saying, "You need to think about your image through window displays and your advertising campaigns."

Johnson has a Bachelor’s Degree in public relations from the University of Texas, and a Master’s Degree in Historic Preservation and Economics at St. Edwards University in Austin. He joined the Texas Historical Commission’s Main Street Program in November of 2001.

Johnson travels to 91 Texas Main Street Cities, not only helping them to operate more efficiently budget-wise, but also capitalize on historic assets.

The luncheon was sponsored by Citizens National Bank, and was catered by Cowboys Barbeque.