The Marion Economic Development Co. (MEDCO) was founded 28 years ago for the purpose of facilitating business expansion in Marion. We recognize that our community thrives when a strong business base exists and when adjoining cities are also thriving. We have worked closely with surrounding communities on a wide variety of activities that encourage business growth and an improved quality of life.

The MEDCO board of directors supports the premise that a casino will expand economic development in Linn County and a yes vote by Linn County voters is encouraged on Tuesday.

Linn County will benefit from having a casino in Cedar Rapids. A casino will directly create jobs and additional jobs will be indirectly created by those businesses serving the casino and its guests. The increased property, sales and hotel motel taxes generated will benefit all of Linn County and lead to additional economic expansion.

The casino also will address quality of life issues by providing more than $2 million in cash grants to communities, schools and non-profit organizations in Linn County. The casino is a win-win for Marion and Linn County.

The MEDCO board asks for your yes vote.

George K. Lake

President,

Marion Economic Development Co.