With significant economic growth occurring throughout Nebraska, communities are reaping the benefits of establishing economic development organizations to further bolster their economies.
In Minden, Nebraska a new Economic Development Organization was recently formed with the assistance of Minden’s City Administrator, Michael Krings. Krings initiated this effort to separate economic development from the municipality. He explained, “Economic Development can sometimes be messy, and we felt like that mixed with politics was not a great thing. This also allows us to start building up a tool chest (money, land, etc.).” He also noted that a private organization can quickly and efficiently respond to opportunities.
The Minden Economic Development Organization is managed by Michael Krings, Executive Director, and a Board of Directors. Krings described the formation process as smooth. They collaborated with similiar organizations, reviewed their by-laws, and then customized them t fit their needs. Once they were confirmed, their attorney drafted up and filed all the necessary documents with the state. The organization holds quarterly meetings.
Krings said, “While we wish these steps would have been taken years ago, we are excited about what the formation of this organization will mean for the Minden community going forward. Years from now, the citizens will be happy we did this now and benefit greatly in having an active economic development corporation.”
Minden’s Mayor, Mayor Larry Evans said, “Small town, rural America is making a comeback. People are starting to realize how great it can be to live in a place where the pace is just a little bit slower, while still having all the amenities they want like a phenomenal school system and top-notch healthcare. We want to make sure Minden is positioned well to showcase ourselves to potential families and businesses alike.”
Rick Nelsen, NPPD Economic Development Consultant said, “I applaud Minden for formalizing their economic development organization. In today’s economic development environment, it is important for a community to have such an organization and a point of contact. The Economic Development Team at NPPD looks forward to working with Michael and the MDC Board to help Minden grow.”
In addition to Minden, Auburn Development Council, Inc. (ADC) recently re-organized to focus on increased development opportunities. Crystal Dunekacke, Auburn City Administrator/Economic Developer said, “The Board of Directors set goals for increased development of the organization, including the expansion of the impact of the organization and the need for an economic development professional to help aid day to day operations.”
ADC began its re-organization by looking at the models that other communities had successfully used to bring their community together and lead eventual economic development success. ADC worked with NPPD to go through a strategic planning session and with Nebraska Extension to complete the Entrepreneurial Community Activation Process (ECAP). The results highlighted the need for increased economic development efforts in the community.
ADC then worked with the City of Auburn to connect with local economic development groups to learn effective organizational structures that could help attract new investors and additional opportunities. They updated their bylaws, creating a new format that includes a seat at the table for interested area investors. The organization received increased cooperation with the City of Auburn, the Auburn Community Redevelopment Authority, the Auburn Chamber of Commerce and Auburn Public Schools. This will aid in the goal of increased economic development for the community. During the June Council meeting, the Auburn City Council passed an MOU that will include the investment of $150,000 in ADC this year followed by three years of subsequent investment of $60,000 a year for a total of $330,000 over the next four years. ACD and the City of Auburn are hopeful that others will invest and become part of the journey to grow Auburn over the next 20 years.
Dunekacke said, “The City of Auburn’s investment in ADC will increase the pursuit of economic growth for our community. I can’t wait to see what is possible in the future.”
Auburn’s Mayor, Mayor Chris Erickson said, “I am excited for Auburn and Nemaha County’s future. I feel we have so much economic growth potential. Great things are happening every day! The Auburn Development Council has taken steps to keep Auburn a community of choice when it comes to future employees, employees and anyone wanting a top-notch quality of life. This a great community with excellent schools and outstanding programs for citizens in all stages of life. I fell the re-organization of the Auburn Development Council shows our community leaders feel we won’t stay stagnant and much continually find solutions.”
For more information on forming an economic development organization, your are welcome to contact Michael Krings – mkrings@discovermindennebraska.org or Crystal Dunekacke – crystald@auburn.ne.gov.