West Plains Economic Development Corporation (WPEDC) held their monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at the West Plains Public Library.
As part of the meeting, West Plains Economic Development Director, David Bossemeyer, provided a report on the following topics:
Economic Development Director Report:
- Favorite fishing: Gearing up for opening, continuing hiring process. They have voiced a desire for stoplights on U.S. 63 be set to resume the flashing caution light. Tom Stehn discussed how the lights are set and informed that the police have reported less accidents since it was eliminated. The city will continue discussions on this matter.
- Lighthouse Group: Second phase of utilization is underway. Dave is in the process of developing a committee that would assist in identifying a narrower target market for this campaign.
- Industrial Ad Campaign: Dave is working with Myles Smith to develop a county wide industrial ad campaign showcasing businesses that are hiring and what type of qualifications are needed.
- Introduction of 3D RFP: A vendor will be solicited to develop virtual advertising utilizing 3D technology.
- Tractor Supply: Site preparation is underway, and they are hoping to start the build in the next week with a targeted open date of February 2021.
- Legislative Involvement: Dave and Tom Stehn recently met with Megan Nickey, local representative for Jason Smith’s office. Megan was provided an extensive list of area issues/needs.
- Ridgecrest: Owner is evaluating conversion to multi-family apartment complex.
- Two manufacturing entities conducted a search of available facilities.
- A potential RV park may be developed, utility issues are being discussed.
- Dave recently presented to Noon Rotary as well as attending two conferences.
- EDC Data is being revised for the WP Chamber Directory. Also, the EDC prospectus has been updated.
- Two new businesses, Honeybee Septic and Nick’s Septic are in the process of obtaining business licenses.
Other business conducted by the Executive Board included:
- Update of Three-Year Plan: Myles discussed revisions he has been working on to update the Three-year plan and has requested input from members. Also, discussed how to increase input from other community members. Myles will email draft to Sonja who will distribute to advisory and community boards requesting input. He also added that it would be helpful if adding a goal to include proposed cost which will assist in budget development.
- Annual Fundraising: Annual fundraising will be conducted in November. Carol voiced that she desires to increase reach of fundraising to include industry from surrounding areas. Discussion was held of the reach of this board and it was determined our mission is to serve the greater area of West Plains. Fundraising efforts will be extended to businesses within Howell County. A brochure will be developed for this purpose.
- Nominating Committee: Dan informed his term as well as Carol Silvey’s ends this year. He requested a nominating committee be formed with representative from each subcommittee and one executive committee. Sonja Stauffer will represent the executive committee as well as the chair of each subcommittee. Dan will start the process via email.
Anyone interested in serving on one of the committees may contact Tom Stehn at the West Plains City Hall or Myles Smith at Howell-Oregon Electric Cooperative.
The West Plains Economic Development Corporation, was formed as a public/private partnership to boost the economic development prospects in the area. The board consists of representatives from the business sector, the community, and the City of West Plains – all of whom will work closely with Dave Bossemeyer on economic development projects for the area.
