Economic Development Alliance Discusses Housing, Childcare, and Recruitment Initiatives
June 17,2026
Housing development, workforce recruitment, childcare solutions, and the use of remaining ARPA funds were key topics during the Thomas County Economic Development Alliance meeting on June 17 at the Thomas County Office Complex.
Board members approved financial reports and noted that all Alliance loans remain current. They also approved corrections to several meeting minutes after a date discrepancy was discovered in records from 2025 and early 2026.
Executive Director Vernon Hurd reported growing interest a workforce incentive program. Local employers including the Colby Fire Department, Citizens Medical Center, and legal offices throughout northwest Kansas have interest in the program for recruiting outside professional labor.
Housing discussions centered on a modular home alternative manufactured by Prime Craftsman Homes. Hurd said the homes can offer an affordable option compared to “stick built homes” traditional construction and could help address workforce housing needs.
The Alliance is exploring opportunities to bring a model home to Colby for residents to tour.
Childcare remains another major workforce challenge. Hurd outlined expanded federal childcare tax credits designed to incentivize qualifying employers with up to $500,000 annually, or as much as $600,000 for some small businesses, if they help provide childcare for employees. Hurd noted that workshops are scheduled for August to help educate local employers on the program and potential benefits.
The Alliance is also moving forward with a new First Impressions program through Kansas State University. The program will include community workshops and a new evaluation of Colby and Thomas County, with last evaluation on record was 2015.
Board members also received an update for a potential manufacturing project. Representatives from a South Dakota company recently toured the former Red River Commodities facility in Colby and met with regional companies that use rail access. The company is interested in processing specialty grains, including durum wheat, which could create new marketing opportunities for local producers.
However, the project has been placed on hold due to concerns about cleanup costs at the facility and the significant investment required for equipment and renovations.
Hurd also addressed questions raised during recent discussions with Thomas County commissioners regarding how Alliance programs benefit smaller communities such as Brewster and Rexford. While development opportunities in Brewster remain limited by available land, he noted there may be potential for future housing projects in Rexford.
Hurd emphasized that Alliance programs are available throughout Thomas County, even though most development activity currently occurs in Colby, where roughly three-fourths of county residents reside.
The board also approved a $7,500 agreement with BowerComm's "Journey to Yes" program. The six-month process will help develop marketing, tourism, and workforce recruitment strategies while providing a framework for spending approximately $200,000 in remaining ARPA funds before the end of 2026.
Following approval of the proposal, the board entered executive session.