Paducah renews Make My Move contract after staff reports rising referrals and process tweaks

The Board of Commissioners approved a $20,000 contract renewal with Team Matt LLC d/b/a Make My Move to continue the city's talent-attraction program. City staff reported the program's metrics and described procedural changes staff say will improve conversion rates. Economic development staff said Paducah made six offers through the program in fiscal 2024, seven in fiscal 2025, and currently has 16 active offers. “In fiscal 24, we had 6 movers. And in fiscal 25, we had 7 movers. And so far, for fiscal 26, we have 16 offers that are out,” a staff presenter said. Nancy, the staff lead on the program, told commissioners her review of peer communities showed Paducah compares favorably and that procedural tweaks could increase results. She recommended simplifying the timing of offers so candidates receive a formal offer earlier in the process and expanding eligibility to self-employed applicants who can demonstrate they can work from Paducah. Commissioners supported continued investment and approved the municipal order to authorize the contract placement by roll call. “We've had 6 the first year and 7 this past year... We have 16 offers out right now,” Nancy said when summarizing outcomes. Staff said they will return with suggested changes to program procedures and potential ordinance edits if the commission wishes to widen eligibility criteria.