November 2020
Muleshoe People – as I recently celebrated my one-year MakingMuleshoe November 2020 Muleshoe People – as I recently celebrated my one-year anniversary working for the City of Muleshoe, I find myself reflecting on the past year as I begin to plan for the work to be done in 2021. We will all remember 2020. My optimistic spirit reflects on a year of many firsts. Our ability to adapt as leaders, students, workers, business owners, as children, parents, and grandparents, was put to the test. My encouragement for you is to stay as stubborn as a mule. Accept the circumstance, take care of yourself for the sake of others, be mindful, get creative, learn something new, be a problem solver, and stand up for the things you love. Instead of finding a reason to complain, find a reason to be grateful. Unlike any other time in our life history, we all have a part to play in the health of our community.
As you all know by now, Bailey County has been notified by the Texas Department of State Health Services that we have reached the threshold for areas with high hospitalizations. This means that all restaurants, retail stores, office buildings, manufacturing facilities, gyms, exercise facilities and classes, museums and libraries are required to return to a maximum of 50% occupancy levels. This means, all social gatherings are limited to 10 people or less and the mask mandate has been reinstated. Furthermore, the County Judge nor the Mayor of Muleshoe will not approve gatherings of any kind exceeding 10.
Businesses are left with many challenges and frustrations. During this trying time, the MEDC is an advocate for business and a resource center. The City of Muleshoe and the MEDC developed the Muleshoe CARES Small Business Grant Program to assist businesses who were impacted by COVID-19. Together, we were able to offer up to $2,500 in grants for small businesses inside the city. We are grateful for the funds we received through the CARES Act that allowed us to provide this kind of financial support.
Besides financial support, the MEDC can assist struggling businesses through our partnership with Leading EDG. Leading EDG’s Cameron Winegar, who is in Muleshoe twice a month, can meet with business owners, managers, and entrepreneurs, to overcome any challenges they are facing. I recommend scheduling a free meeting with Cameron if you’re looking to identify creative solutions for your business operations. Cameron can help businesses develop marketing strategies, set up and understand how to launch a successful website and social media, and start selling online. These business components have become increasingly important in a postpandemic economy.
Ultimately, the MEDC exists to meet the needs of the business community. Our goal is to create an environment where businesses can thrive. Please join me in starting the conversation about what the MEDC is and what it does. If there is a better way we can serve the community, we want to know how! My phone, email, and office doors are always open to the public. Until next month, stay positive and stay healthy, Muleshoe.