The Garden City FCEDC Board of Directors convened on December 18, 2024, to discuss key developments impacting the local economy and housing landscape in Finney County, Kansas. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to attract new businesses and address the pressing housing needs of the community.

Lorna, a board member, reported a lull in prospect activity but expressed optimism for renewed interest in early 2025. She emphasized the importance of Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) developers, noting that Finney County has been designated to receive additional points in the upcoming application round due to a lack of recent projects. This designation is expected to attract more developers, which is crucial given the competitive nature of these tax credits.

The board also discussed the implications of Tyson Foods relocating over 200 employees from its Emporia plant to Garden City. This move is anticipated to create significant housing demand, prompting discussions about the community's ability to accommodate new residents. Lorna mentioned the ongoing efforts to expand childcare services to support working families, particularly those employed at Tyson.

In addition to housing, the board reviewed infrastructure developments, including the acceptance of the Country Acres project by the county commission. This project, along with the upcoming phases of Hunters Glen, is expected to contribute to the local housing supply. The Prairie Wind mobile home community also showcased new owner-occupied mobile homes, which could provide quicker housing solutions.

The meeting further addressed commercial development, with discussions around proposals for new entertainment facilities and the potential for multifamily housing projects. The board is actively working with various stakeholders to ensure that the community can meet the growing demand for both residential and commercial spaces.

As the meeting concluded, the board members acknowledged the importance of these developments for the future of Garden City. With the annual meeting scheduled for January 23, 2025, the board is poised to continue its efforts in fostering economic growth and addressing housing challenges in the region.