Turner, Harris dedicate new Ivy Tech Campus

State Reps Eric Turner and Tim Harris were both very involved in the early stages of bringing a new Ivy Tech Campus to Grant County. The Marion Chronicle-Tribune reported that it was a day of celebration for them on Saturday when they dedicated the new facility.

State Rep. Tim Harris, R-Marion, reflected on what he called a “tough day” in Marion’s history when the Thomson plant closed in 2004, cutting more than 800 manufacturing jobs. He said on the same day he took a call from Henry Olynger, offering to donate land for the campus. Local developer Gary Oradat also donated land. Harris said the economic growth in the county since the closing of the TV picture tube manufacturing factory was a result of such community involvement.

“This is happening because people are working together in unprecedented ways in Grant County,” he said.

Turner was equally positive.

State Rep. P. Eric Turner, R-Marion, called the building a dream come true for him.

“I’ll never forget the look on (Ivy Tech Executive Director) John Lightle’s face and (Marion Mayor) Wayne Seybold’s face when I said, ‘We’re going to build a new building in (Marion),’” Turner said.

Republican tour continues in New Albany

Reps. Brian Bosma and Eric Turner visited New Albany last week to continue to promote the Republican property tax relief program passed this general assembly.

The News and Tribune:

The two were in Evansville on Wednesday before making the drive to New Albany. Their message has been one of support for the property-tax relief package, which will include $620 million in aid for 2008.

“The burden of property taxes was becoming unbearable for homeowners,” Turner said.