This is a copy of the report Mark McCoy, Chairman of Regionial Economic Development Incorporated, gave to the county commissioners this week.
Report to the Bourbon County Commission
Introduction
Chairperson and Members of the Commission,
Thank you for the opportunity to present an update on the accomplishments and ongoing initiatives of Bourbon County REDI. Over the past year, REDI has remained steadfast in its mission to drive economic development, enhance community well-being, and create opportunities for growth across Bourbon County. Below, I provide an overview of our key activities and achievements.
Comprehensive Studies and Reports
Bourbon County REDI has conducted several targeted studies to inform strategic planning and decision-making. These include:
- Labor Market Trends:
- Data shared with State officials to assist in site selection projects for potential business locations.
- Information provided to local businesses to support HR teams in marketing their companies to prospective employees.
- Retail Sector Performance:
- This study supported downtown businesses, including The Kitchen Collective, Bids and Dibs, The Artificers, and Bourbon County Clay.
- Data was instrumental in grant applications, resulting in multiple successful awards.
- Housing Needs Assessments:
- Utilized in marketing materials for external and local developers to promote housing initiatives.
- Integrated into multiple Moderate-Income Housing (MIH) grant applications to support development projects.
- Sales Tax Revenue Analysis for the South Development Project:
- Provided to the State to support the STAR Bond project and shared with developers to attract potential businesses to Fort Scott.
- Business Retention and Expansion Efforts:
- Conducted three years of Business Retention visits since 2021.
- Assisted Niece Products in resolving a stormwater issue that impacted their manufacturing operations.
- Advocated for infrastructure improvements near Peerless, leading to the completion of a road project that supports future expansion opportunities.
These studies have proven invaluable in guiding county-wide planning and fostering informed economic development initiatives.
Grant Funding Achievements
Over the past year, REDI successfully secured over $2 million in competitive grant funding, with $200,000 already disbursed. These grants are funding transformative projects throughout Bourbon County, including:
- The $900,000 Horton Street Grant
- Grants for local organizations such as The Kitchen Collective, The Artificers, and Bourbon County EMS
REDI’s ability to secure external funding has greatly enhanced our capacity to support local priorities.
Economic Development Projects
REDI continues to collaborate with the State of Kansas on business attraction projects, providing information and site options for potential investors. Key locations under consideration include:
- The Value Merchandiser building
- Property in southern Fort Scott for a large manufacturing facility
While these projects are managed primarily by the State, REDI remains engaged and prepared to support when Bourbon County advances to the final stages of selection.
Community Grant Support
REDI distributed over $150,000 in community grants to fund critical development projects across the county. These funds, provided by the County, have been invested in:
- Baseball field upgrades in Redfield and Bronson
- Park improvements in Uniontown, Fort Scott, and Mapleton
- A new playground at Kansas Rocks
- $17,000 for Bourbon County EMS to purchase AEDs
These investments directly improve the quality of life for residents throughout Bourbon County.
Local Project Participation
REDI has played an instrumental role in several community-based projects, demonstrating our commitment to partnering with local organizations. Key projects include:
- The Splash Pad project
- The First Kansas Mural
- The USD 235 pond project
- Sidewalk construction in Mapleton
- The Gathering Place Pavilion
These initiatives underscore our dedication to enhancing community assets and fostering civic pride.
Housing Development
REDI continues to work with local and external developers to address critical housing needs, with ongoing initiatives totaling over $5 million. Highlights include:
- Smaller developments using Landbank properties
- Larger projects on Richards Road and other high-priority areas
REDI is actively engaging developers to expand both single-family and multi-family housing options across the county.
Strategic Planning
In the fourth quarter of 2022, REDI successfully organized Bourbon County’s first-ever County-Wide Strategic Planning session. This collaborative effort brought together stakeholders from school districts, Fort Scott Community College, community organizations, and local businesses to identify and address regional challenges.
Community Leadership
REDI has taken a proactive role in addressing critical issues facing Bourbon County. Our leadership has focused on key areas, including:
- Housing: Driving initiatives to expand and improve housing options.
- Childcare: Working to address gaps in affordable and accessible childcare services.
- Tourism: Promoting attractions to increase visitation and economic impact.
- Healthcare: Supporting efforts to improve access and services for residents
Closing Remarks
Bourbon County REDI remains committed to serving as a trusted partner and catalyst for growth within our community. We value the support and collaboration of the Bourbon County Commission as we work together to achieve shared goals. Thank you for the opportunity to present this update, and I am available to answer any questions you may have.