The city of Jackson has been dealt some painful blows by businesses moving to Martell and the county moving its courthouse to the top of the hill, but Amador County's resilient county seat is not about to roll over and play dead.

Ideas have been flowing all year from the members of Jackson's Economic Development Committee. Since its creation at the beginning of the year, the committee and its think tanks have produced lists of suggestions that might cure the city's economic woes. At the top of the list is the suggestion that the committee dissolve and transform itself into a more powerful entity. The city council has decided to follow the committee recommendation by forming an official group, which will be known as the Jackson Revitalization Committee.

With official status comes the ability to operate as a public-private nonprofit organization, which will be able to raise the funds necessary to accomplish its goals. Official status also brings the need for definition of the composition of the committee membership. Two city council members will be on the committee, while the other nine members will be from various segments of the Jackson community. Specifically, two are expected to be merchants, two property owners, one a member of the Historic Jackson Business Association, one Jackson resident and three members-at-large. The city is seeking applicants for these nine seats on the committee. Application forms are available online at www.ci.jackson.ca.us/.

Another major step in the city's ongoing quest for renaissance was the council's decision to explore the formation of a redevelopment agency. Jackson is soliciting proposals from individuals or firms with expertise in such matters. Full information about the scope of this project and applicant requirements are also available on the Jackson Web site.