Long public comment urges county action on housing and local economic development
Summary
Resident Terry Williamson urged Pratt County officials to tackle population decline through housing rehabilitation, events and coordination with economic development; he said he has rehabs and affordable units but requested county help and coordination with the chamber and city.
During the public‑comment portion, Pratt County resident Terry Williamson urged commissioners to pursue measures to reverse a decades‑long population decline and to support housing and local attractions that can draw residents and visitors.
Williamson described personally rehabbing dozens of properties to provide affordable housing, saying he has brought dozens of units online and offers a range from low‑cost studio apartments to larger family homes. "I brought 49 houses or properties... we're bringing houses for people to live in," he told commissioners. He said workforce shortages and high housing costs make it difficult for employers to recruit and for businesses to expand.
Williamson also urged the county and city to support tourism and community events, saying successful regional celebrations in nearby towns drew thousands and that Pratt should better promote local festivals and fairs. He recommended working with the chamber and economic development staff and said he would meet with them directly.
Commissioners responded with suggestions to connect Williamson with the county and city economic development staff, the chamber and with travel‑and‑tourism efforts. No formal action followed the comment period.
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