Commission agrees to contribute $20,000 toward countywide economic development strategic plan

Commissioners discussed a proposed countywide economic development strategic plan, organized by Greater Hutchinson (the region’s economic-development partnership) and supported by private investors and several cities. County Administrator and county staff explained the plan would produce a five-year roadmap identifying roles for the county, cities, private investors and the chamber; the work would include town-hall outreach to smaller communities and recommendations on industry targets and action steps.

Commissioner discussion ranged from support for a coordinated countywide approach to skepticism about the value of outside consultants and prior studies. Multiple commissioners said they wanted assurance the chosen consultant would conduct substantial in-person outreach in smaller towns rather than rely solely on virtual surveys. The county administrator and commissioners who participated in the selection interviews said the recommended firm planned greater on-site engagement and that county staff (and commissioners) would help ensure adequate outreach to small towns.

Commissioner motioned and the commission approved contributing $20,000 from the county’s economic development incentive fund toward the study. County staff said the contribution would be part of a larger funding effort that includes private investors and community foundations; county monies would be earmarked for the strategic-plan phase that directly informs county-level decision-making, not for private capital campaigns.

Staff will coordinate with Greater Hutch and partner cities on scope and consultant selection and return to the commission with any contractual documents and details as needed.