Economic Development Alliance Discusses Housing, Child Care and Workforce Recruitment
May 20, 2026
Meeting once again at the Thomas County Office Complex on Range Avenue, officials discussed the latest developments in community projects, workforce initiatives, housing needs, and business support programs during the Alliance's May meeting.
After approving the agenda, minutes, and financial reports, the board members stated the City Sales Tax Fund currently holds approximately $51,321 and that all outstanding loans remain current.
Executive Director Vernon Hurd reported progress in multiple efforts by the Alliance throughout the county. One recently approved initiative is aimed at helping individuals with misdemeanor offenses regain their driver’s license, a move that is intended to improve employment opportunities and workforce participation.
The group continues to work with multiple businesses pursuing renovation projects downtown. One business has been exploring the opportunity to refurbish apartments that are on the upper floor of their property. Another was considering a major remodel as they will be paying off a loan from the Alliance later this summer. That business expressed interest in working with the Alliance on financing once again.
Board members received an update on the Luckert Lofts redevelopment project on the corner of 4th Street and Franklin Ave. The Alliance recently received the second grant disbursement associated with the project, and the project has made large strides since demo began. Hurd reported that the Luckerts were preparing to have two Airbnb units, with additional residential units to follow.
The local housing crisis remained a major topic of discussion once again. Hurd and board member Ron Alexander were scheduled to meet with housing developers from Salina to discuss potential low-income housing opportunities in Colby.
Meanwhile, it was reported that Excel Development, the company responsible for the duplexes north of Jimmy John's, has submitted applications for several housing-related grants.
They are awaiting funding decisions before determining their next steps in Colby. Alexander noted that attracting any qualified housing developer remains a priority as job growth continues to outpace available housing inventory.
Child care availability also remains a key workforce topic. Hurd reported recent discussion involving representatives from U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall’s office, LiveWell Northwest Kansas, Citizens Medical Center, and other stakeholders regarding the newly expanded federal and state child care tax credits. Unlike traditional family tax credits, these incentives are designed for employers to help provide assistance and options for child care.
Hurd was exploring collaborative models in which businesses could reserve child care slots for workers, helping providers maintain stable enrollment while increasing available capacity for families. State funds have been authorized for up to $3 million in child care tax credits, and Hurd noted federal funds were also available.
The Alliance also discussed the nature of the former Red River Commodities facility. Recently the Kansas Department of Commerce announced a grant program targeting vacant industrial and commercial properties. The property could provide a redevelopment opportunity if a suitable project emerges.
Hurd reported that the alliance continues to work on its website and workforce recruitment efforts. He’s seen increased traffic at their internship recruitment page, and he’s considering adding testimonials from developers and business leaders who have completed projects in Colby. Multiple developers have praised the ease of working with local government and agencies during their projects.
The board approved revisions to its Workforce Recruitment Incentive Program. The updated guidelines allow employers to offer up to a $10,000 hiring incentive to qualified recruits, with at least $5,000 designated for moving expenses. Changes also expanded eligibility to include students who left the region for college and later returned for employment.
The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss personnel matters. No binding action was taken after the session, but the board approved a performance-based wage increase for an alliance employee.