In an effort to attract more businesses to the area near U.S. 59 and U.S. 400, the city of Parsons may hire a retail recruitment firm.
Parsons city commissioners will consider approval of a letter of engagement between the city and Retail Strategies to begin a three-year contract on Jan. 1. The contract would cost the city $25,000 per year.
Jim Zaleski, economic development director, told commissioners during a Thursday work session the company should help him “get in the door” to talk to national retail chains. With a hotel and conference center being built on Cattle Drive near North 16th Street (U.S. 59), the city also wants a full-service restaurant to locate near that intersection. Additionally, the city hopes to fill other empty spaces near the U.S. 59 and U.S. 400 junction with retail businesses.
Zaleski said he worked with Chanute’s economic development group to get a better deal with Retail Strategies. The Chanute group plans to sign a contract with the firm. The Montgomery County Action Council already works with Retail Strategies and recommended the group. Zaleski said he also has talked to four other firms over the last couple of years.
Zaleski goes to trade shows and sets up a booth representing the city, but he equates that with making cold calls. Retail Strategies should help him make more solid connections with decision makers for national retail companies.
(Read more: Parsons Sun)