Thomas County Economic Development Board meets in September
September 17, 2025
The Thomas County Economic Development Board met on Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2025, at the Economic Development office to address financial reports, project updates, and ongoing community development initiatives.
Board members discussed several corrections needed in the organization’s financials, specifically an issue tied to payroll entries showing up as a credit instead of a debit. Because of the discrepancy, members voted not to approve the August financials at this time.
Despite the correction still pending, sales tax revenues for the month were strong, totaling $24,480. Loan reports showed positive progress as well, with one loan fully paid off and all others current.
Executive Director Vernon Hurd updated the board on several projects. Preparations are underway to release a food incubator survey designed to gauge community interest in a shared-use commercial kitchen. Questions were raised about licensing requirements, with City Manager Ron Alexander noting that the process may mirror concessions licensing at the Colby Event Center.
Hurd also highlighted the success of the Western Kansas Rural Economic Development Alliance (wKREDA) conference recently hosted in Colby. The event drew more than 40 overnight guests, with Comfort Inn reporting 29 rooms booked and additional guests staying at other hotels. Legislators from across the state attended, and feedback on the sessions and hospitality was highly positive.
One of the most significant updates came from McCarty Family Farms, where a newly completed biogas facility is now converting dairy waste into renewable natural gas. At capacity, the project is expected to generate enough energy to power 13,000 homes annually. Beyond the environmental benefits, the economic impact is substantial—approximately $70 million per year from the dairy flows into Thomas County.
Other updates included the status of the long-discussed truck wash project, which remains on hold while the proprietor focuses on other business matters. Hurd noted that postponed workforce and housing workshops would instead take place later in the day. Excel Development is also continuing to work with economic development staff on its next housing project in Colby.
The board briefly revisited several ongoing items. Discussions included the use of ARPA funds, land bank opportunities for housing development, and the conclusion of entrepreneurship classes, which have now wrapped up and will no longer appear on the agenda.
The board adjourned with the next meeting scheduled to be held at the Comfort Inn.