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Barry County renews $152,005.85 economic‑development agreement; broadband and land‑bank staffing discussed
Summary
The board approved a flat renewal payment of $152,005.85 to the Barry County Chamber and Economic Development Alliance for 2026, noting broadband expansions reaching about 7,500 residents and county assumption of staffing for the land bank and Brownfield Authority.
County administration recommended renewing the annual agreement with the Barry County Chamber and Economic Development Alliance for $152,005.85 covering EDA services, $15,000 for career‑technical education and $12,000 for the PlaceRight AI program.
Administration said the county is not increasing the payment from 2025; the board discussed broadband expansion that has extended high‑speed service to roughly 7,500 county residents and the county’s administrative assumption of staffing for the land bank and Brownfield Authority previously supported by the EDA.
Commissioners praised EDA/Chamber staff for grant support and economic‑development work. The board approved the agreement by roll call.
Why it matters: The agreement funds economic development services, workforce/CTE support, and a data tool (PlaceRight AI) used to pursue grants that can bring state and federal funds to local projects such as broadband, housing and childcare.
Next steps: Administration will execute the agreement and continue joint work with the chamber and alliance on broadband, housing and grant pursuit.
