Despite the ongoing economic struggles in Oklahoma and the rest of the nation, Moore is still growing, said Deidre Ebrey, director of marketing and economic development. She was speaking at a meeting of the Cleveland County Business and Industry Council at the Moore Norman Technology Center.

She said the city that employs her is doing better than most in today's challenging economic environment. Moore's unemployment rate is an estimated 5.3 percent, still just about half of the national figure.

Ebrey said Moore's population and business growth is "fast but manageable," adding the city has 317 homes that have been permitted this year. She said 180 of those are under construction.

"I think we might hit 325 by the end of the year," she said.

Ebrey also announced that Convergys, which provides customer service for other businesses, recently said they will be adding 250 positions to its Moore location. With 1,300 employees, she said Convergys is Moore's largest employer other than Moore Public Schools (2,552 workers).

Ebrey said Moore is seeing plenty of construction projects, it's just that most of them are public. She said the poor economy and favorable bidding environment is helping the city do more building for less money, including the construction of a new fire station and a new police station and emergency management center.

Moore Public Schools also will grow in the future, Ebrey said, with plans to build a pair of new elementary schools.

"This will help on the elementary level, but they'll be looking to add another junior high by that time," she said.

New businesses in Moore include:

· Lewis Jewelers moved from Norman to 2705 S. I-35

· Louie's Grill -- Bar, 1601 S. Service Road

· Rue 21, Shops at Moore

Opening soon:

· Chicken Express, next to Aldi's

· Jack in Box at Fritt's Farm