Thomas County Economic Development Alliance meets for November Meeting

The Thomas County Economic Development Alliance met on November 19 to review financial standing, explore ongoing development initiatives, and discuss emerging opportunities that could shape the region’s long-term growth. The meeting touched on everything from downtown revitalization and housing shortages to potential ag-based development and a new promotional video highlighting Colby’s economic landscape.

Members approved the October minutes before moving into a detailed review of the organization’s financials. While the Alliance currently sits roughly $6,400 ahead, Director Vernon Hurd cautioned that the positive margin will not hold through year’s end once annual expenses such as rent are paid. The organization pays its rent annually, drawing from a CD that accrues interest to help offset the cost.

The City of Colby sales tax fund report showed three October entries, including $7,344.80 paid to Penco Engineering for the taxiway extension project and $124,254.28 to Weigel Concrete.

Hurd delivered an extensive director’s report, beginning with the ongoing evaluation of a food-business incubator. After gathering data and learning from Atwood’s model, he said sustainability remains the major obstacle. Atwood’s incubator relies on a partnering foundation to survive financially, and even then usage of the commercial kitchen has been limited. Based on current community interest, Hurd said the program appears unlikely to move forward in Thomas County.

Interest in downtown Colby continues to grow following Colby Furniture and Home Store’s decision to clear out the former furniture store. Several entrepreneurs have approached the Alliance with concepts ranging from an appliance business to a teen-center concept with banquet space on the second floor. The interest ties into broader conversations about downtown revitalization, especially as new housing options such as the Park Place Townhomes and another housing renovation project taking place downtown.

Housing was again a major point of discussion. Hurd provided an update on the Dane G. Hansen Foundation housing cooperative, which is exploring a potential remodel program aimed at rehabilitating existing homes. Such a program could complement the city’s land bank and help address Colby’s shortage of available housing. However, he noted ongoing demographic challenges, particularly in Rexford, where employees of local industry are increasingly choosing to live in Colby, potentially reducing enrollment in USD 511 as children age out of the school system.

Hurd also announced that Thomas County is being evaluated by an agricultural site selector for a potential rural ag-based project. While details remain confidential, he said the county’s transportation access and existing dairy operations place it in a competitive position. Additional economic activity could also come from anticipated work on local wind towers and a proposed battery storage system.

The Alliance also discussed a community arts grant that encourages cities to turn unusual infrastructure features into public art installations. The $10,000 grant requires no match and could help create walkable attractions downtown.

Before adjournment, members approved contributing $2,000 toward a Colby showcase video project. The promotional video, to be produced by local filmmaker Lincoln Meyers with Myers Media, will highlight Colby’s business climate, amenities, and regional strengths. Additional partners such are expected to join the effort, allowing for a high-quality final product that can be updated seasonally and used for economic recruitment.

The next Thomas County Economic Development Alliance meeting is scheduled for December 17 at 8 a.m.