Eight days into the new year and the Regional Development Association is already focusing on the development of future projects.
During the RDA’s monthly meeting Friday morning, board members reviewed a number of so-called “bolt programs” identified by board members in early 2020. According to RDA President Kent Heerman, the programs are secondary tools that assist the RDA in its overall mission.
Nearly 30 concepts were identified through these efforts with the RDA planning to break them up into separate conversations over the next 12 months. Those conversations will begin next month during the RDA’s regular board meeting and will focus on adding small business development and entrepreneurship to the role of the RDA as well as the possibility of expanding high-speed internet access across the area.
Heerman says these two items fit well together as broader internet access can mean more potential for expansion of business opportunities outside of the local community.
In other business, the board welcomed its newest members Friday morning including the city of Emporia’s new appointee Brad Kraft, Corey Haag who is filling the vacant seat for Emporia Enterprises following the passing of Rick Tidwell late last year and new Lyon County Commission Second District Representative Doug Peck.
The RDA will next convene for its monthly meeting in February.
