Seward County economic development group asks council to renew $78,186 membership and funding agreement

Jonathan, representing the Seward County Chamber and Economic Partnership (presentation identified in the transcript as the group's executive), presented the organization’s annual report and requested the council renew the city’s membership and funding agreement for fiscal year 2025 at the same level as the current year: $78,186.

Jonathan said the organization's public funds are segregated in a separate bank account and that it conducts an annual audit within 60 days of June 30; he gave the council an audit conducted Aug. 12 and an independent financial review dated July 19. He said the city’s contribution supports economic and community development efforts across Seward County and that municipal representation on the partnership’s board has been important; Councilmember Kaylor serves on the partnership board, Jonathan said.

Rachel Summer, representing Southeast Community College’s Milford campus and a member of the partnership’s board, described the college’s role in training a workforce to match new employers and cited training for nuclear plant operators as one example of how the college aligns programs with local needs.

Jonathan highlighted recent activity, including Plum Creek Seed Services' new facility at the Seward Rail campus and noted the partnership performs TIF assistance and other facilitation work. He said the partnership is not requesting an increase this year but seeks continued support at $78,186.

Councilmembers did not take a recorded vote on the funding request at the meeting; the item was presented for consideration and the council may act on the funding agreement in an upcoming agenda.