The Ottumwa Courier

Opinion

April 21, 2012

Saturday Saidits

Our Opinion

OTTUMWA — The word that Pella Regional Health Center plans to open a family practice facility this fall in Ottumwa is welcomed news.

It’s no secret that the Ottumwa area is in need of more medical professionals — physicians and specialists who can serve a diverse population with various medical needs.

The proposed clinic will complement our existing medical facilities in town and will be an economic boost to the west side of Ottumwa.



The response to the city’s Community Development Block Grant application for adaptive reuse of commercial buildings was tremendous.

Twenty-two applications were submitted by downtown building owners who want to make changes to their properties to accommodate much needed housing space in Ottumwa.

Of course this is just the beginning of turning downtown Ottumwa into the vibrant retail and residential area it could be, but it’s a sign Ottumwa is ready to move forward.



Finally, kudos to those young people from Pekin High School, along with countless other volunteers, who have been busy this week helping property owners in Hedrick clean up the town following last weekend’s severe storm.

The students pitched in to pick up debris and offer a helping hand to their neighbors and friends who were impacted by the storm.

That type of community spirit is evident throughout southeast Iowa. It’s a true reflection of the compassion, the heart and the tenacity it takes to help those in need.

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