During their Feb. 9 meeting, the Quitman Development Corporation (QDC) heard a quick presentation from Quitman resident John Wisdom, who said that he and wife Joanne “really appreciate” the QDC, but no longer need the property they recently bought from them.

“We really appreciate the opportunity that y’all gave us to purchase Lot 4… but it just didn’t fit,” he said.

Wisdom said that they propose donating the property back to the QDC so that it can be used by someone else who would give back to the community.

“Joanne and I love Quitman, and we’d just like to see that used to foster another new business to come to Quitman, and love it like we do,” said Wisdom.

The board also discussed a proposal at length from Fort Worth-based company Lone Star Lubricants. Owner Stephen Goodpaster said that he has lived in Quitman for 5 years, but commutes to Fort Worth to maintain his lubricant-blending business. He would like to bring his business to Quitman to cut down on the drive. The board spent 25 minutes discussing and suggesting properties for Goodpaster to look into.

“Obviously, we’re all here to help you,” said board member Pam Bowdoin.

“I hope we can make something work for you,” agreed QDC President Kevan Burroughs.

The board also saw photos from Haley Papez’ recently-finished façade projects, both of which received a façade grant. The grant had gone through several extensions, with a final deadline of Feb. 12. The façade was finished in time, according to QDC Executive Director Allan Gilbert.

The board will discuss their QDC Bylaws revisions, and updates on their strategic plan (now termed the “Community Development Plan”) at their March meeting. Community Development Plan updates will be given every month.