Monroe Gas Co-op

A Path forward… fueled by passion, community, and quality of life

Executive Summary:

By purchasing & operating the closed down Gas Station on the corner of 300N Main St. Monroe’s citizens have the opportunity to become the first Gas Co-Op in the State. This member owned, and community operated station will be a model for small town circular economy infrastructre that can benefit investors, its members, and the community as a whole.

The goal is to purchase the existing gas station, run it as a co-op, reinvesting profits back into the property, & community through infrastructure, education, arts, parks, and more. The co-op will offer member discounts, and work towards financial independence by paying back investor loans over time.

The Vision: Reclaiming Our Heratage

Our vision is to reignite the unified spirit of Monroe by providing community owned fuel independence.

With the support of our local bank and community investors, we aim to secure this vital asset, ensuring reliable access to fuel and creating a central beakon of change, that benefits monroe’s citizens.

This initiative is about more than just gasoline, it's about taking control of a crucial local service and laying the foundation for a stronger, more self-sufficient future.

The station is one of the primary landmarks in town, and we want it to make an impact, somewhere monrovians are prout to call their own, choosing their local gas over any other in the valley.

Empowering Our Community

The Monroe Gas Coop will operate through a membership model. For an affordable annual fee, residents become members, gaining access to discounted fuel prices and a voice in the coop's direction through voting rights on how surplus revenue is utilized.

A democratically elected Board of Directors, comprised of fellow community members, will oversee operations and ensure the coop remains responsive to the needs of Monroe. This structure prioritizes community benefit and local control above all else.

A Strategic Investment for Our Future:

Our financial strategy focuses on responsible growth and community ownership. We are seeking investment not as permanent equity, but with a clear path to repayment, allowing the Monroe Gas Coop to become fully independent and debt-free.

This approach ensures that future profits are directly controlled by the community, enabling us to strategically reinvest in the gas station's growth and, more importantly, in enhancing the overall quality of life for Monroe residents through outreach initiatives like parks, arts programs, community gardens, and recreation facilities.

Beyond the Pump: Cultivating a Regenerative Economy:

The Monroe Gas Coop is the first step in a larger vision for a thriving, locally-driven economy. By keeping profits within our community and strategically reinvesting them, we aim to create a circular and regenerative economic system.

Looking ahead, we envision the introduction of a local currency, the "Monroe Token" to further incentivize local spending, stronghold our economic resilience, and separate tourism revenue from the spending power of our residents.

This is about building a sustainable and prosperous future, starting with a fundamental resource, fuel.

Our Infrastructure Strategy: Phased Improvement for Long-Term Viability:

Our immediate priority is to efficiently restore the existing infrastructure to get the pumps operational and serve the community quickly. However, we recognize that sustained success requires a strategic approach to infrastructure improvements. We envision a phased plan that will include essential upgrades such as new, efficient fuel tanks, pumps, necessary interior repairs, improved asphalt and parking areas, and the installation of electric vehicle fueling stations to meet the evolving needs of the times. While these upgrades represent a significant investment, they are vital to ensuring the long-term reliability, safety, and relevance of the Monroe Gas Coop in the years to come.

Our Unique Design: Creating a Destination:

Beyond functionality, the Monroe Gas Coop will be a visually appealing landmark, setting a welcoming tone for both residents and visitors. As an artist, architect, and designer, I envision a space that evokes the charm of classic gas stations, incorporating rustic cladding, and thoughtfully chosen, perhaps even authentic retro, or vintage era pumps, as well as elements like a captivating mural wall, outdoor shaded seating, and a pet friendly area. This deliberate design aesthetic will not only create a beloved community hub but also transform the station into a distinctive stop for travelers. Situated prominently as one of the first sights upon entering Monroe, the beauty and unique character of the coop will serve as an inviting gateway to our town, potentially becoming a destination in itself and a source of local pride.

Our Customers and How We'll Thrive:

The Monroe Gas Coop is designed to serve everyone, but our foundation will be the loyalty of our local residents, especially those who become members and directly benefit from discounted fuel. This committed customer base will provide a stable foundation. Beyond our local community, Monroe is a growing destination for tourists drawn to our renowned hot springs, and the summer months bring a significant influx of ATVers and RVers. The Monroe Gas Coop will be their natural first stop for fuel and supplies. To ensure long-term sustainability, we're not just relying on the pumps. The attached commercial kitchen, convenience store stocked with essentials and local goods, and inviting dining/hangout space will be key revenue drivers. Additionally, the existing apartment offers a valuable asset that can be rented out, used for employee housing, or repurposed to further benefit the coop. This diverse revenue strategy will allow us to thrive and reinvest in our community's future.

Summary: Let's Get Our Gas Station Back!

Thanks for taking the time to hear our vision for the Monroe Gas Coop. We truly believe this is a chance to solve a real headache for all of us – not having a gas station right here in town means those time-consuming trips to Richfield, and nobody enjoys that! This isn't just about convenience, though; it's about taking ownership of something vital for our community, keeping our money local, and building a stronger Monroe together. We're excited about the potential to fuel not just our vehicles, but our future. Let's make the Monroe Gas Coop a reality!