Downtown Revitalization

Salem initiated efforts to revitalize downtown in 2007. Communitywide meetings were held to determine high priority needs and develop plans. This led to the formation of special committees to address major issues that were identified. The geographic area of downtown was designated along 4th St from MacArthur to Pershing (also 3rd and 5th Streets near Hwy 19), and Hwy 19 from the north city limits to the south city limits of Salem.

Vision: 
“Through teamwork and thoughtful planning, Salem and Dent County will offer attractions, historic and diverse businesses and unique special events to its citizens and visitors alike. The area will be well-known for its appeal, cleanliness, accommodation and genuine Ozark hospitality.”

Committees were organized to address priority issues:

• Financial/Taxes
• Infrastructure and Buildings
• Beautification and Appearances
• Business Attraction and Expansion

Tourism Development

Attracting tourists to the area has been a long-term goal in business development. City leaders and Chamber of Commerce members have addressed this topic for many decades. The annual Rally in the 100-Acre Woods held annually in March draws national and international participants. Marketing efforts are supported by a special Dent County 2% Lodging Tax.

Evidence of marketing includes an effective website www.salemmo.com, three auto-tour guides leaving and returning to Salem, rack cards distributed throughout the state, restaurant guides, and marketing of special events. A relocation guide is available for those interested in local contact information for services and community resources.

Industrial Development

Salem and Dent County are home to industries that are unique to the area. There is an expanding base of agriculture, forestry, mining, and distribution. Salem is well known for its wood industry and close proximity to lead mining. Stave mills, charcoal, rough cut, and kiln dried lumber, specialty wood trims, wood for barrels, flooring and cabinets are all manufactured in the area. US Foodservice Distribution Center is the largest employer in the Salem with over 300 employees. Agriculture and Tourism are growing industries as well.

Efforts to support growth in Industrial development include the recent designation of an Enhanced Enterprise Zone (hotlink), and the efforts of the Dent County Industrial Development Authority (IDA). The City of Salem Industrial Park (hotlink) opens it doors to new and expanding industries. The community works in partnership to support new industrial growth and job creation. The City of Salem, County of Dent, and County IDA works closely with Regional Planning, USDA Rural Development, the Economic Development Administration and other agencies to create industrial growth.

The Dent County Industrial Development Authority (IDA)
The IDA promotes economic development in Salem and Dent County. The IDA currently owns two industrial buildings and partners with the local, state and federal government to promote industrial development of the area. IDA is comprised of a local board appointed by the Dent County Commission.

The board meets on an as needed basis.
To contact the board call Donald Dodd at 573-729-4126 or Ed Pratt, Consultant 573-729-6115

Enhanced Enterprise Zone

Enhanced Enterprise Zone

The Enhanced Enterprise Zone provides a stimulus for new business development or expansion that results in creating sustainable jobs in targeted industries in Salem and Dent County. Local property tax abatements are available and state income tax credits could be available to eligible businesses. For more information, see:

• Incentives/Enhanced Enterprise Zone
• City Of Salem EEZ Brochure (PDF)
• State of Missouri Enhanced Enterprise Zone Brochure (PDF)

Other Planning and Financial Resources

USDA Service Center

• USDA Rural Development – Business Loans, Grants
• Rural Economic Development – Business Loans, Guaranteed Loans, Grants and more

Small Business Administration Assistance (SBA)

• SBA provides a number of financial assistance programs for small businesses including 7(a) loans, 504 loans, and disaster assistance loans. SBA’s loan programs, surety bonds and the role of SBA can be described by the local office.

Meramec Regional Planning (MRPC)

• Revolving Loans and Loan Packaging
• MRPC prepares applications and services RLF loans for customers in the eight-county area. This local fund was created by a grant from the Economic Development Administration with local match provided by cities, counties, businesses, and other organizations. Additional funds were recently added through a loan from USDA’s Intermediary Relending Program. (IRP)

Other Resources…

• Financing and Support
  For information about the State of Missouri tax incentives, public infrastructure, financial resources, venture capital, workforce incentives, and other programs available to new businesses in Missouri, go to http://www.missouridevelopment.org/
• Industry specific guidelines:
  http://www.business.mo.gov
• Business Startup Assistance:
  http://www.missouribusiness.net
• Financial Information
  Financial packaging assistance and information for other special state and federal programs. http://www.missouridevelopment.org
• Information for licenses, permits, etc.
  Department of Revenue – State http://www.brsiness.gov

  University of Missouri Extension

Business Program
The University of Missouri Extension’s business program helps Missouri’s entrepreneurs succeed in private enterprise. Financial information and education is available through training programs and counseling.

Contact Information
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Phelps County University of Missouri Extension Center
Phone: 573/458-6260
Website: http://www.missouribusiness.net

Other Resources on this Website…

Transportation

Services
• Permits and Licenses
• City Facilities
• Utilities

Financial Institutions

Real Estate
• Industrial Park
• Commercial Buildings Available
• Real Estate Agencies

City of Salem Office of Economic Development
400 N Iron St.
Salem, Mo 65560
E-mail economic@salemmo.com
573-729-2428