Economic Development Director Provides Quarterly Update on County Growth

Pottawatomie County Economic Development Director Shanna Goodman delivered a quarterly update to the County Commission this week, highlighting recent economic indicators and ongoing projects throughout the county.

Goodman presented the organization's third quarter economic indicator report, which shows regional stability despite national economic uncertainty. According to the report, countywide sales and use tax remains at a year-to-date average that is consistent with previous periods.

"This region is showing stability amongst some nationwide uncertainty," Goodman told commissioners. "There are just kind of a lot of things being put on hold nationally with just the political climate. But we are seeing stability locally."

The housing market continues to present challenges for buyers, with the median home price in Pottawatomie County reaching $330,000 in September. Goodman reported that home sales remain at approximately the same level as last quarter, which she described as "low."

Several housing assessments have been completed or are in progress. The St. Mary's housing assessment has been finalized and published, showing "strong demand and community-wide growth." The Blue Township housing assessment is awaiting final approval from the Department of Commerce and should be available soon, with local developers reportedly eager to review the findings.

Goodman also discussed the recently completed community growth conversations and needs assessment, which gathered input from communities including Westmoreland, St. Mary's, and St. George. This information has been shared with the Flint Hills Regional Council and various legislators.

"What we did is we went into each of the communities that are one of the larger ones in the County," Goodman explained. "We asked what some of the main challenges were for their community, some main opportunities, etc., and then just kind of fed it up into a document and kind of a needs assessment."

The organization has cross-referenced community needs with available grant opportunities. For instance, Goodman noted that Wamego could potentially utilize a HEAL grant for a needed city hall building downtown. In St. George, Goodman is working with State Senator Kenny Titus to address water issues related to high nitrates.

Among ongoing projects, Goodman mentioned "Project Toto," a large development that emerged from interest in the Caterpillar facility. This project involves discussions with KDOT regarding extending Valley Street east of Wamego to open additional land for development.

Goodman also reported that the former Champion building, owned by Dave DeRiley, is now available for lease. A local employer plans to expand into part of the building, with additional space available for other businesses. Following the closing of the Haynes facility, Goodman noted that approximately 85% of displaced workers have found employment locally.

In response to commissioner questions, Goodman reported that Solar Turbines is settling in well after taking over the Caterpillar facility on August 1. The company has joined the Chamber of Commerce, become an investor in economic development, and is discussing potential facility expansion over the next couple of years.

The Economic Development Board will meet this Thursday, with Commissioner Yenzer serving as liaison and Commissioner Page as the alternate.