Roundtable Conversations Highlight Opportunities and Challenges Across the County

PCEDC investors, county commissioners, and community partners came together recently for a dynamic roundtable discussion on business, workforce, and regional growth. Participants shared common challenges—such as filling entry-level and technical positions, expanding housing options, and competing with larger cities—but also voiced strong optimism about the region’s direction.

Attendees highlighted growing collaboration between local governments and private industry, new housing and development opportunities, and the region’s deep sense of community pride. Ideas for continued progress included preparing more shovel-ready sites, supporting technical education, promoting private development, and celebrating local successes.

Together, investors and partners emphasized that by promoting the region’s strengths and continuing to work collaboratively, Pottawatomie County can sustain and accelerate its momentum toward long-term economic prosperity.

Current Workforce and Business Challenges Participants shared a wide range of challenges affecting their businesses and industries. The most common themes included difficulty filling entry-level positions and a shortage of specialized talent , particularly for technical roles. Several noted challenges recruiting interns and competing with larger cities for workforce talent.

Broader economic concerns such as high interest rates , uncertainty at the federal level , and a high cost of living were also cited as barriers to growth. Some participants emphasized that while businesses are emerging from post-COVID impacts , workforce and economic challenges remain. A recurring theme was the need to think regionally rather than community-by-community when addressing workforce and business development issues.

Excitement About the Region’s Future Despite challenges, the tone of this round was optimistic. Participants expressed enthusiasm about people returning to the area and new residents moving in , signaling renewed population growth.

There was strong appreciation for increasing collaboration between city and local government , as well as the growing partnership between private industry and public entities . Many also cited housing development possibilities and community pride

as bright spots for the region’s future.

Growth Needs: Companies, Infrastructure, & Policies Participants emphasized the importance of maintaining a pro-growth mindset and reducing regional risk aversion . There was strong support for expanding shovel-ready sites , increasing the use of RHIDs , and celebrating local successes to encourage investment.

The group discussed the need to promote private development and foster collaboration between public and private sectors . Several participants also highlighted the need to diversify the local economy , with more manufacturing and commercial opportunities , and to support the growth of technical colleges

to strengthen the workforce pipeline.

Attracting & Retaining Talent Participants agreed that the region is naturally attractive but needs to better promote its strengths to potential residents and workers. Housing availability and job opportunities were identified as critical to retaining talent. The consensus was that the region must align housing development and job creation to maintain a sustainable workforce.

Regional Collaboration One key point raised was the need for greater regional support and collaboration with Riley County , reflecting an understanding that economic development success depends on multi-county cooperation and shared priorities.

Overall Themes Workforce challenges remain the most pressing issue across sectors. Housing, infrastructure, and workforce development are interdependent priorities. The region’s collaborative spirit and community pride are major assets. A proactive, risk-tolerant approach and stronger regional alignment will be key to future growth.

Next Steps: Advancing the Conversation Through Advance Pottawatomie 2030 To ensure this roundtable leads to meaningful progress—not just another conversation—PCEDC will integrate the key themes directly into the Advance Pottawatomie 2030 Strategic Plan implementation efforts already underway.

Workforce Alignment: Input from this discussion will be folded into the plan’s Workforce Development priority area. PCEDC will share feedback with education and industry partners already engaged in strengthening the local talent pipeline and explore ways to expand internship and apprenticeship opportunities identified by employers during the roundtable. Housing and Development Readiness: The housing and shovel-ready site discussions align directly with the Community Infrastructure and Housing goal. PCEDC will coordinate with local governments and developers to update the inventory of active and potential housing projects and identify opportunities for RHID utilization or site readiness support. Regional Collaboration and Promotion: The call for greater coordination with neighboring counties ties into the Regional Partnerships and Marketing objectives of Advance Pottawatomie 2030. PCEDC will build on existing relationships through the Flint Hills Regional Council and regional marketing efforts to strengthen shared workforce and site development strategies. Accountability and Communication: Rather than create new committees, PCEDC will use the Advance Pottawatomie 2030 progress updates to track and share actions inspired by the roundtable. Success stories and measurable outcomes will be highlighted in investor updates and regional communications to keep partners engaged and informed. By channeling the insights and momentum from the roundtable directly into the priorities of Advance Pottawatomie 2030, we can continue to move the region forward with purpose, coordination, and visible results.

Roundtable Conversations Highlight Opportunities and Challenges Across the County

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