MASON CITY – The City of Mason City and Prestage Foods of Iowa are pleased to share additional terms to the pending Development Agreement being considered by the City Council. Prestage Foods approached officials to discuss items that are in line with their core company values to create mutually beneficial solutions that address legitimate concerns voiced by citizens.
The company fully recognizes the importance of local schools, and understands the concerns about how they will be able to address potential growth. As part of the company’s commitment to ensure that they are a positive community steward, they have committed $1.4 million over 10 annual installments to Mason City Public Schools.
“While I cannot speak for the Board, from my perspective this is a wonderful commitment from Prestage Foods that shows their desire to be an important community partner,” School Superintendent Anita Micich said. “These funds will assist the schools in our planning and preparation for new students and any challenges that may bring. We are excited about the possibilities and look forward to providing all of our students with the best education possible.”
In addition, the company is acutely aware of the concerns of citizens and community partners regarding the potential for future development of hog confinements near communities and important waterways. Prestage Farms has included language in the Development Agreement guaranteeing the company will not build or operate any hog confinements within 2.5 miles of the city limits of the City of Mason City, the City of Clear Lake, or surrounding Clear Lake itself.
Clear Lake City Administrator Scott Flory said, “The City’s most pressing concern, as it relates to the proposal, was the potential introduction of confinement operation facilities in proximity to the Lake watershed. Prestage Farm’s willingness to respect the City’s concerns for the Lake watershed protection is very helpful and appreciated.”
Mayor Nelson Crabb said, “Prestage Farms and the Mason City elected officials recognition of the concerns that were expressed by Clear Lake for the watershed and their collective efforts to develop a favorable solution is a step in the right direction.”
