Chevron REG Breaks Ground on 10-Acre Solar Array in Mason City, Iowa; Mason City Chamber CEO Delivers Remarks
Colleen Frein, President & CEO of the Mason City Chamber of Commerce delivered remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony for Chevron Renewable Energy Group on Tuesday, July 9. This event marked the start of construction on a new 10-acre solar array being added to the company's biodiesel plant in Mason City, Iowa. Her remarks are as follows:
We are excited to see this continued investment from Chevron Renewable Energy Group at the Mason City location. REG has been a crucial partner in the growth and development of the community. And I’d like to share some examples of what I mean by this.
First, biofuels are truly fueling the economy in North Iowa. For those who are guests in Mason City today, it should be pretty clear on why this is so important. We are the urban center of a rural region. The success of our farmers dictates the health of our local economy, and biofuel production plays a a crucial role in their success. But it goes beyond that – biofuel research and production is a key component in ensuring we have a healthy environment for our future generations. We are proud to be at the center of this industry here in North Iowa, and continued investments like the one we are celebrating today are evidence of that.
Second, and something that is dear to my heart, is Chevron REG’s investment in the greater good of the community. This facility has been a member of the Chamber for more than a decade, and we have seen great growth in that time. Not just in the industrial park, but in our downtown, in our parks, and in the attitudes of people in our region. Chevron’s local leadership has been heavily involved in this growth. This includes Tyler Kerr’s service on our Board of Directors, leading the Chamber as Board Chair through the pandemic. It includes Tonya Roberts’ willingness to step up and pitch in whenever it is needed, like enlisting her teammates and loved ones to help install the beautiful picture frames in Central and East Park. It includes Evan Hulbert ensuring community treasures like our North Iowa Band Festival and Moonlight Bike Ride are included in Chevron’s charitable giving.
On behalf of the Chamber’s 650 plus businesses, thank you for your commitment to the environment, to the people in our community, and to the development of our region. We look forward to many more years of partnership!