Economic Development Alliance Tours Center Pivot Brewery, Highlights Growth and Opportunity in March Meeting
March 18, 2026
The Thomas County Economic Development Alliance took a step outside its usual meeting space on March 18, gathering instead at the recently opened Center Pivot Restaurant and Brewery in downtown Colby. The special location provided members with both a working meeting and an up-close look at one of the community’s newest and most talked-about business developments.
Following a call to order, the Alliance quickly moved through routine business, approving the amended agenda, February meeting minutes, and financials. Leadership noted the organization remains in a strong financial position.
One of the key financial updates included a report on the City of Colby Sales Tax Fund, which showed a recent payment of $21,269 and $5,946.63 in interest, bringing the total balance to just over $2 million. Additionally, all current loans within the Alliance’s portfolio remain in good standing, with several nearing full repayment. A new loan was recently finalized for a dog boarding business, with its first payment scheduled for July.
Director Vernon Hurd provided a wide-ranging report highlighting both recent successes and ongoing initiatives. The Youth Entrepreneur Challenge, held the previous week, was described as one of the smoothest events the Alliance has hosted. Sophie Stramel and MaKenna McCoy each won their respective divisions, with Stramel ultimately earning the grand prize and advancing to the state competition. Additional opportunities remain for other participants to qualify through upcoming wildcard events.
Hurd also shared progress on a website internship program, which will bring in a student for a 20-hour position at no cost to the Alliance. Meanwhile, a regional effort led by Kansas Legal Services is working to help individuals expunge misdemeanor offenses, potentially restoring driver’s licenses for more than 800 people across four counties. Officials noted the significant workforce impact, as reliable transportation remains a key barrier to employment in rural areas.
Looking ahead, the Hansen Community Forum is scheduled for March 24 and 25, while budget discussions will take place at next month’s meeting. Hurd also reported continued economic movement locally, including plans for a local bank to relocate to downtown Colby and growing anticipation that Runza may open as early as May.
In old business, discussion continued around the use of remaining ARPA funds. The Alliance is exploring a potential partnership with the Colby Visitors Bureau that would allow federal dollars to be exchanged for state funds, reducing restrictions and increasing flexibility in how the money can be used for local development priorities.
The highlight of the meeting came with a presentation from Center Pivot owners Steve and Ericka Nicholson, who shared the story behind their expansion from Quinter to Colby. The pair detailed the challenges of launching and relocating the business, as well as the strong community support that helped bring the project to life.
Since opening just before Christmas, the brewery has quickly become a gathering place in downtown Colby. The Nicholsons emphasized their goal of creating an environment centered on conversation and connection, noting that many customers put their phones away and engage with those around them.
Currently employing three full-time and approximately a dozen part-time staff, the business is already looking ahead to future growth. Potential “Phase 2” plans include expanded seating, outdoor space, and possibly additional event or dining areas. The owners also sought feedback from Alliance members as they consider next steps.
The Alliance later turned its attention to new business, including support for a loan application from Peak & Prairie LLC. The proposed project would transform the former Colby Furniture building into a youth-focused activity center featuring batting cages, arcade games, and community gathering space. The board voted to support the application as it moves forward through Network Kansas.
Additional actions included discussion of the upcoming Chamber Banquet, approval to move the April meeting to April 22, and authorization of designated signers.
The meeting concluded with an executive session, followed by adjournment. The next meeting of the Thomas County Economic Development Alliance is scheduled for April 22 at the Alliance office.