The City of Keota recently received feedback from a visit conducted by the Iowa Downtown Resource Center this summer.

Downtown Economic Specialist Jim Thompson from the  Iowa Economic Development Authority and Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group Joe Jennison  provided a “Downtown Walk Around” assessment of Keota in mid-June. These quick visits with community leaders and stops at local businesses seek to provide an honest first impression of a downtown area. Keota City Council Member Keith Conrad shares his thoughts on the walk around, “I thought it was a great experience. You get to have people from outside your community come in and show you where your positives are, where your negatives are and what your potential is. And it was very valuable. I did find it very interesting and very useful information that was brought by Jim and Joe on their final verbal comments back to the people that were there.” 

One of the biggest issues the assessment mentions is the lack of signage and a lack of upper level housing.The character and history of the buildings already provide a unique living experience and this type of housing can boost the economy of a community. Conrad adds that looking at the big picture is important but taking small steps and looking at the small picture is just as essential to improve the community. To read the assessment visit here.