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Partnerships increasingly Important

Partnerships between public and private agencies in local economic development projects are increasingly important as issues grow in complexity, a university survey found. The survey was conducted by the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs at Western Illinois University. The institute is directed by Norman Walzer.

Public-private partnerships extend to housing developments as well as industrialization and commercial projects.

"Public-private partnerships in local economic development offer many opportunities, but also must overcome a series of obstacles," Walzer said. "In addition to agreeing on specific projects and methods of financing, these arrangements typically involve investments by cities with clear expectations about results. Monitoring these agreements can pose many challenges for public officials not typically accustomed to managing projects in the private sector."

Walzer said cities have made a variety of investments in these efforts, including technical assistance by city personnel, free land and public services, low-cost loans and worker training programs.

"In a few instances, cities have taken equity positions in projects and share in the profits or losses from the venture," he added. "Many of the cities have built the infrastructure needed for the development to occur, but have allowed businesses wide latitude in creating the ventures."

An Energy Star® PC equals energy savings

Computer equipment is the fastest growing electric load. In fact, energy use by computers could double by 2000. Unfortunately, much of the energy associated with computers is wasted because personal computers (PCs) are often kept on while not in use.

Purchase a PC system that automatically "goes to sleep" when not in use, an Energy Star computer and monitor. Here's why:

Energy Star computers and monitors automatically power down to 30 watts or less when not in use, cost no more than other models and can save you $7 to $52 per year in electricity bills.

Energy Star computers and monitors generate less heat than conventional systems. This creates a comfortable work environment and cuts energy bills. Energy Star computers also tend to be quieter than conventional computers.

Call your local electric cooperative for more information. As a consumer-owned business, your co-op is always ready to help you save money.

A couple of degrees here, a couple of dollars there

A degree here and a degree there and pretty soon you're talking real money!

Lowering your thermostat by one or two degrees in the winter can mean real savings on your heating bills.

For example, lowering your thermostat to 68 degrees from 70 degrees will save you 6.2 percent on your heating bill. Each degree you raise or lower the thermostat from 70 degrees F. means you will pay 3.1 percent more or less on your heating bill.

If you need more information on how to cut your winter heating bills, call your local electric co-op for more assistance. Your local electric co-op employees will be happy to help find other ways to save money.

One word of caution should be made here about lowering thermostats. Hypothermia is a danger during the winter for the very young, those who are ill and the elderly. Don't risk your health in order to save a little on your heating bill. The National Institute on Aging recommends keeping the thermostat above 65 degrees at all times, and for those over 75 a temperature of 70 degrees is recommended. Wear sweaters and plenty of warm clothing during the day. At night an electric blanket will keep you warm for less than 5 cents a night.

ILLINOIS COUNTRY LIVING JANUARY 1999


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