MASON CITY – Debate led to petitions. Now, the ante is being upped as donations are being collected to repel a possible hog plant development that still has a chance.
The endeavor is being led by Representative Sharon Steckman, who announced late this afternoon that a fund raising campaign has been launched.
“Hot off the press, just created!” Mrs. Steckamn proclaimed via social media, linking to a “Go Fund Me” website titled “No Prestage” where financial contributions can be made. “Also there is an account at Clear Lake Bank & Trust,” she continued.
Joining Sharon Steckman in headlining the cause are Chris Peterson, Independent Hog Farmer, of Clear Lake; Pat McGarvey, Former Mason City Interim Administrator, of
Mason City; and Dr. Paul and Barbara MacGregor of Mason City.
According to a description, the “No Prestage” Go Fund Me page:
“Was formed by volunteer citizens and community leaders to give a voice to the vast members of the community that do not want Prestage Farms in our city or state. We must stop this industry! Our quality of life depends on it.
Even though the Mason City Council voted 3-3 and the Prestage deal was defeated, parties of vested interest within Mason City are trying to bring a new deal back to the Council.
Citizens that want better opportunities for our town, and are concerned about the many varying detrimental aspects that come along with this type of industry, have joined together.
The funds raised will help offset printing, mailing and advertising expenses, among other bulk costs, neccessary to stop Prestage Farms.
Our volunteers have already been financing and contributing to this cause, while agreeing to cover their own fuel or any personal expenses. These funds will only go toward contacting the masses and any means needed to put an end to this.”
Mrs. Steckman gave a $100 donation today.
So far, there has been no word on any fund raising efforts by those in favor of the Prestage Foods pork plant development, which promises to bring nearly 2,000 jobs and well over a million dollars in tax revenue to Mason City each year.
Pro-Pork plant folks have a petition available to be signed, spearheaded by realtor Rick Mathes. It is called “Hear us too Mason City”, which is for people who may be “disappointed that a vocal minority kept Prestage from bringing 2000 new jobs to our area” and “want to let the City Council know there’s still time to change their minds and bring a project with a $750 million regional impact to Mason City”.
At this time, Mason City and surrounding areas are buzzing on the prospects of the Prestage Foods hog plant development getting a second chance. Sources continue to tell NIT that the three council members who voted against the project are being lobbied hard to come on board under a brand new agreement with Prestage. The word is, this time, “stakeholders” and certain council members want a unanimous, guaranteed 6-0 vote before bringing the deal forward in an official capacity. The terms of this new agreement are being hammered out right now and could be made public in the next few weeks.
