The City of Emporia has officially made public a letter authored by Mayor and City Commissioner Erren Harter. Shared through an official Facebook post, the letter addresses the Resource Development Association of East Central Kansas (RDA) and outlines the City Commission’s rationale for requesting a restructuring of the RDA Board. The primary motivations cited include recommendations from the VisionFirst report, the need for enhanced economic development, and an effort to diversify board membership.
Official Motion for RDA Restructuring
During a City Commission meeting on December 8, the commission approved a motion authorizing Harter to formally request changes to the RDA Board structure. This proposed restructuring would establish a majority of board representatives appointed by the City of Emporia. A significant stipulation accompanied this request: if the RDA Board fails to comply, the City Commission will withdraw all funding currently provided by the city through taxpayer money.
VisionFirst Report Highlights Restructuring Needs
Harter emphasized concerns raised following the release of the VisionFirst report, which recommended restructuring the RDA Board to improve representation and ensure consistent quorum maintenance.
In the letter, Harter stated, “Given that the City’s sales tax provides 100% of the RDA’s funding, the current structure neither adequately reflects the City’s substantial investment nor provides the robust oversight our residents deserve.”
Increasing Diversity on the RDA Board
Another key focus of the proposed changes is improving diversity among board members, particularly by addressing gender disparity. Harter noted that while more than 40 men have served on the RDA Board, only five women have held positions, and just one woman has served as RDA Chair. According to Harter, fostering diversity would enable the board to better represent the community and promote growth.
Economic Decline Cited as a Driving Concern
Using data from the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis (FRED), Harter highlighted a troubling trend of economic decline in Emporia. Key statistics revealed:
| Indicator | Trend Since 2007 |
|---|---|
| Employment | Declined |
| Median Household Income | Decreased |
| Population | Reduced |
Harter stressed the urgency of adapting to future challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. “To remain competitive, Emporia must foster innovation, reskill its workforce, and attract employers offering substantial, well-paying careers,” he explained.
Deadline and Next Steps
The RDA Board has been given a deadline of January 21 to respond to the proposed restructuring. Harter expressed his hope that the board would transition into a “true working board,” actively engaging in initiatives and leveraging members’ expertise to drive progress.
Should the RDA fail to meet these demands, Harter proposed that if Emporia Enterprises is dissolved, the City would appoint financial and real estate professionals to oversee land within the RDA portfolio.
Ensuring Accountability and Growth
In the letter, Harter reinforced the importance of a governance model that is representative, accountable, and capable of spurring economic growth. He stated, “We must ensure the RDA’s governance supports upward mobility, leverages local talent, and prepares us for the challenges of emerging technologies and shifting markets.”
FAQs
What is the main reason for the restructuring request?
The restructuring request is driven by concerns about representation, diversity, and economic growth. The VisionFirst report also recommended changes to improve board effectiveness and inclusivity.
Why is diversity on the RDA Board important?
Diversity ensures that the board reflects the community it serves and fosters inclusive growth. Currently, the gender representation on the board is heavily skewed toward men.
What are the economic concerns cited by Mayor Harter?
Key concerns include declining employment rates, reduced median household incomes, and a shrinking population, trends that have persisted since 2007.
