In a little more than 24 hours, we say goodbye to the first decade of this millennium. In the broad scope, it was a roller coaster of a decade. Nationally, we witnessed historic events and trends that changed America — terrorist attacks, economic booms and busts, a green movement, Google, Facebook, Twitter and high definition televisions. Change has never been more apparent in one decade for this nation.
And, all the while, Morton, a village that began the decade as a town of a little more than 15,000 residents has grown to nearly 17,000. As the rest of the world progressed, Morton expanded its identity beyond pumpkins.
The past decade was a primer for the next. Morton continued to grow, not only residentially, but financially. More businesses set up shop in town. Morton has become a town where residents could not only work, but also shop. It also gained several organizations that will and have already, no doubt, had a substantial impact on the next decade — Morton Community Foundation, Morton Economic Development Council, Morton Tourism Association.
Though much has certainly been done to pave the way for the future, the village, along with its residents, is prone to many economic factors that will impede early progress.
Mortonites quickly learned that this growing village is not recession proof. The village is faced with a $2.7 million deficit in its general fund. Locally, businesses — ranging from small to big — were forced to cut back, resulting in a loss of jobs. And, Illinois, as a whole, is facing one heck of a financial crisis.
Undoubtedly, Morton is faced with a challenging transition to the next decade.
However, the village has yet to see the fruits of all that was accomplished in the ‘00s. This village, with arguably the best infrastructure in Central Illinois, is prepared for more growth. That means more business, more jobs, more activities and more town.
Historically, Mortonites have been reluctant to this much change. But, if progress in this last decade has proven anything, it is that this town and its residents have embraced the idea of expanding its horizons so long as Morton remains the community it has always been — family friendly and conservative.
Hopefully, by 2020, that still holds true. Here’s to a new decade, Morton!
