Top 7 Stories of 2025
As a new year approaches, we find ourselves reflecting on a few of the achievements we've shared with our members, partners and the community throughout the year. Notable highlights include major investments in education and workforce development such as expansions at Calhoun Community College and the opening of the Rural Development Park, along with continued growth through projects like the Cook Museum of Natural Science expansion, the Clearview Cancer Institute groundbreaking and the adoption of a new city zoning ordinance.
As we say goodbye to 2025, we invite you to reflect on the top seven stories that make us excited for the future of Decatur-Morgan County. Click any of the headlines to be directed to the original article.
Chamber Leadership Class Donates Record-Breaking Proceeds - In August, the Chamber's 2024–2025 Excellence in Leadership class donated over $32,000 from its pickleball tournament in June to three local nonprofits.
Know Before You Vote Brings Voters and Candidates Together - On August 7, Know Before You Vote drew more than 250 voters to hear from 18 candidates ahead of the August 26 municipal elections.
Cook Museum Announces Expansion Plans - In August, the Cook Museum of Natural Science announced plans to expand. Cook’s Pest Control’s real estate arm is also redeveloping the former Decatur Country Club into a mixed-use community.
Clearview Cancer Institute Celebrates Groundbreaking - In August, the Chamber celebrated the groundbreaking for Clearview Cancer Institute’s new $54 million facility on 6th Avenue in Decatur.
Calhoun Expands Advanced Technology Center - In September, Calhoun Community College celebrated the opening of its expanded Advanced Technology Center. Enrollment also topped 10,000 as Calhoun expands into downtown Decatur.
Decatur Approves New Zoning Ordinance - After seven years, the Decatur City Council approved a new zoning ordinance, modernizing regulations first adopted in 1958 and creating a more user-friendly framework for future development.
Rural Development Park Opens in Morgan County - In December, Morgan County Schools and Calhoun Community College celebrated the official opening of the Rural Development Park, a dual-enrollment career tech high school.