Burlington, IA – Business leaders in one Southeast Iowa community believe the results of a recent survey show growth and progress.
Policom Corporation (Palm City, FL) ranks micropolitan communities based on the strength of their local economies. The survey of cities between 10,000-50,000 residents looks at a variety of factors (wages, unemployment, job diversity, welfare use).
The firm ranks Burlington #110 nationally and #1 in both Iowa and the Tri-State region. Dennis Hinkle with the Greater Burlington Partnership says the study shows progress.
In 2004, Burlington was ranked #292. Hinkle says the city's rank has improved in each subsequent year.
2009 - #110
2008- #123
2007 - #136
2006 - #148
2005 - #224
2004 - #292
Hinkle says the ranking could help in economic development, especially when a company is looking at micropolitans in Iowa. He says it is also important to show residents that local efforts are working.
Regional Rankings
Burlington - #110
Muscatine - #118
Quincy - #202
Keokuk/Fort Madison - #287
Hannibal - #416
Galesburg - #509
Macomb - #537