Mary Wilson, executive director of KCAD (Keith County Area Development), updated the board June 18 on multiple economic-development and housing matters.

Wilson said KCAD's small-business support program has 38 active clients and that the state Grow Nebraska matching program has closed. She noted a county big-gift campaign is funding wayfinding, park updates in Paxton and projects in Brule, and that the Western Trails Creative District received support for the statewide sculpture walk.

On housing, Wilson said two houses are under development (one nearing completion; one midway), two developer-delayed applications are paused because builders reached capacity, and two additional applications are in progress. She said a 78-unit apartment complex had a revoked permit reissued by the city and the county expects progress; the project team has not yet requested reimbursement tied to tax-credit awards, which the county expects to learn in August.

Wilson said a "race and gaming" construction project is aiming for an Aug. 19 race day and that an iHub discussion with a water-focused team is scheduled for July 1. She also reported that Department of Economic Development Director Casey Baylitz resigned effective July 18.

Wilson and commissioners discussed a city-owned property (the former Alco/veterans building) with reports it sold and may be subject to rezoning; Wilson said she had different reports and could not confirm specifics. She also said KCAD will continue outreach to seniors and other stakeholders on planning and survey response collection for the county's comprehensive plan.