In three years, economic development in Emporia could have a different look if the city adopts the goals of a study presented Wednesday.
Vision First has been working on a set of recommendations for Emporia city commissioners the last several months and presented its plan during a special City Commission meeting. City Commissioner Jamie Sauder called the study and the report a “welcome disruption” when it comes to economic development locally.
The key takeaway was the longest-term recommendation provided by Vision First: an “umbrella organization” to oversee operations by the Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas, the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce, Visit Emporia and Emporia Main Street — with organization efforts perhaps beginning by early 2026 and the new organization operating by late 2027 or early 2028. RDA Board President Kala Maxfield says there is still a lot to determine as this process moves forward, but she was also heartened by her initial findings.
City commissioners had several concerns about the proposal, many of which revolved around the RDA — which has been under the interim leadership of Jim Witt after prior CEO Chuck Scott resigned early this year. One of the big ones was how to staff the leadership position, given the RDA’s role could change as this process continues. Another was whether the RDA could serve as the umbrella organization, and Vision First says it could — but only if it restructures and becomes a 501(c)6 organization set up for so-called business leagues, chambers of commerce, real estate boards or boards of trade.
For Chamber President and CEO Jeanine McKenna, the report — and its timing — makes a lot of sense.
Visit Emporia Director LeLan Dains says this has the potential for changing a fair amount of local operations, including those in his office.
Main Street Director Casey Woods says the emphasis on performance-based metrics is a good part of the plan, but he’s concerned any changes could mean some aspects of the local Main Street mission could “get lost.”
Short-term, Vision First calls for the creation of a steering committee involving the city, Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce, Emporia Main Street, the Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas and Visit Emporia to discuss collaborations, finalize goals and handle accountability including annual performance-based metrics. Another short-term goal is to dissolve Emporia Enterprises, given what Vision First calls its “duplicative” role with the RDA. Emporia Enterprises Board Chair Justin Mallon declined comment after the meeting, saying he needed more time to study the report.
City commissioners mentioned the need to include Emporia State University and Flint Hills Technical College when it comes to economic development. ESU Senior Director of Development Shane Shivley says education will always have a role in the conversation, even if the constructs change over time.
Flint Hills Technical College President Caron Daugherty says economic development is a key part of its role, both locally and regionally.
Vision First has been analyzing current economic factors, discussing strengths and challenges with city leaders and other stakeholders, assessing programs, studying findings and developing accountability metrics before making its presentation. The report will get more public consideration during the City Commission’s meeting schedule Oct. 2.
