For the last six months, Jim Witt has served as the interim RDA President and it has been quite the ride thus far.
Witt says collaboration and coordination between economic development agencies have always been key to the success of Emporia’s growth throughout the years. With some notable developments, namely the upcoming opening of Little Lyons Daycare and the recent announcement of layoffs at Michelin, Witt says that collaboration has been at a high level as of late.
All of this comes as the City of Emporia and its various economic development entities are awaiting the results of a survey through Vision First regarding the “effectiveness of Emporia’s economic development entities.” The interview stage of that process wrapped up last month and Witt says the results should be made available in the next few weeks.
Witt says the city of Emporia will review the study first as it was the contracting agency for the study. Witt stated in an interview with KVOE Monday morning that he believes all entities involved in eco-devo in Emporia do a great job but believes there could be some areas for improvement and development which the study could help shape the direction of.
Following the announcement of the city’s plans to conduct the review, there were initial concerns that the city was looking to do away with entities such as the RDA. However; city commissioners were adamant this process is only meant to help strengthen said entities.
It’s Witt’s opinion that once the results are made available they will need to be reviewed with an open mind and a willingness to “take it for what it’s worth.”
