January 31, 2006
Adel is a great place to live right now, but actually, being my home town, I have always thought Adel was a great place to live. Even during my time in the military and after college residing in Los Angeles and Chicago, I always knew I would return to Adel where friends and family influenced me in my youth and helped mold me into the person I am today.
Growing up in Adel and being on the ADM Alumni Board I have become familiar with the generations that have grown up here and have remained part of the community. I have also gotten to know folks that have moved to Adel seeking life in a small town. Many of our residents participate in one way or another to help keep this community a viable and welcome place to live.
The opportunities include serving as board members or coaches on youth leagues, as Scout leaders, helping with Adel Partners and the Sweetcorn Festival (~SCF2k6), Adel Developers and as members of the civic organizations that do so many wonderful things for the community. Activities such as these create a positive atmosphere in our community. And although it has been slow to gain traction, as time passes the Character Counts program will become more visible as a positive influence on our community.
Our citizens supported a new library that we all can be proud of. So much hard work went into turning a dream into a reality. I have heard some folks question the design or location, but then admit they have not visited the library. I would encourage everyone to stop by – we have a friendly staff that will help you with any question you might have.
Speaking of city facilities and services, in recent years we have upgraded our public works building, created a dedicated public safety building and moved into a city hall in preparation for the growth that will eventually make its way to our boundaries. And all with the vision of retaining our small town charm and appeal. The growth in Adel will eventually move east and south, and instead of purchasing land in the countryside and relocate the services there, the decision was made to stay at the core of the city and make access more convenient for everyone.
There are many activities and projects that are occurring in Adel. A new paving project is up for discussion which would finish the non brick street improvements throughout the city. The brick streets will surface again as the city will want to create a dialogue among all citizens about the best approach to preserving and retaining them.
United Brick and Tile, Adel’s largest and oldest employer is expanding it facilities. For those of you that do not know, this privately owned business is widely known and respected in the brick industry. Phil Harrington and the Harrington Group recently acquired the Adel industrial park on the West edge of town. Phil has always been a big supporter of Adel – his plan for the area will be a positive addition to the community. And, despite some store front opportunities on our square, we have a vibrant and healthy business environment where the need to seek products and services outside of Adel can be limited of you take advantage of all that Adel has to offer.
And finally you have to love this town for its spirit. The most recent example was the fundraising event for local businessman Marvin Cohonour and his family to help them during Marvin’s illness. During my time in this town I had never seen a more successful fundraising effort than the Library’s – it will be difficult to match it in terms of the total dollars raised. However, the effort and contributions by so many citizens of this town and the surrounding area for the Conhour family was overwhelming and had to have exceeded the organizers’ expectations. It makes you proud to live in a community like Adel.
The city’s official motto is “Growing with Pride”, however when I talk others about where I live, I say, “Adel – a great place to call home.”
Jim Peters, Mayor, Adel