The Regional Development Association (RDA) of East Central Kansas is undergoing significant discussions regarding potential changes to its board structure and operations. These changes are a result of public conversations that have been in progress for several months.
At the RDA Board of Directors meeting on Friday, a pivotal decision was made to form a committee tasked with studying possible revisions to the RDA’s operational framework. Here’s a detailed look into the ongoing developments and their potential implications.
Formation of the Economic Development Advancement Committee
The RDA Board has approved the creation of the Economic Development Advancement Committee to examine possible changes to the organization’s operations. This decision is based on recommendations from an external report by Vision First, an Emporia City Commission partner, which provided insights into the economic development landscape of the region.
The committee will use metrics outlined in the Vision First report as a baseline for its analysis. Additionally, the board has extended the study deadline from the previously set date of January 21 to April 1, contingent upon the Emporia City Commission’s approval.
City Representation and Board Structure Controversy
Emporia Mayor Erren Harter highlighted the need for a revised board structure in a letter to the RDA Board last month. Harter argued that since the city is the sole funding source for the RDA, it should hold majority representation on the board.
Moreover, the decision not to reappoint Kala Maxfield as the RDA board chair added another layer to the conversation, as it was seen by some as failing to represent the city’s demographics. However, City Commissioner Jamie Sauder clarified that the push for changes reflects the City Commission’s desire for improvement rather than being politically motivated.
Criticism and Support for Proposed Changes
The proposed changes to the RDA board have drawn mixed reactions from stakeholders:
- Emporia Enterprises: The organization, which has collaborated with the RDA, passed a resolution opposing structural changes, arguing that the adjustments are unnecessary and unjustified.
- Lyon County Commission: Similarly, the Lyon County Commission expressed reservations about the proposed changes, although RDA board representative Doug Peck viewed the committee formation as a step toward a more positive future.
RDA Interim President Jim Witt emphasized that the decision creates a favorable short-term atmosphere while paving the way for long-term stability and growth.
Vision First Recommendations
The discussions about operational changes to the RDA are rooted in a study conducted by Vision First this past summer. The study recommended:
- Consolidation of Efforts: Vision First proposed creating a unified umbrella organization to oversee all local economic development efforts, with the RDA leading this initiative.
- Elimination of Emporia Enterprises: The report suggested discontinuing Emporia Enterprises, citing duplication in its mission with that of the RDA.
These recommendations have sparked debates about the future roles of existing organizations and how to streamline efforts for better economic outcomes.
Next Steps for the Committee
The newly formed Economic Development Advancement Committee will consist of 17 members, with a meeting schedule to be finalized soon. The committee’s findings and recommendations will ultimately require approval from the Emporia City Commission, which is expected to deliberate on the matter at its upcoming January 21 meeting.
Commissioner Sauder expressed optimism that the full commission would support the initiative, allowing the study to proceed and ensuring a thoughtful approach to the region’s economic development needs.
Key Information in a Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Committee Name | Economic Development Advancement Committee |
| Purpose | Study potential RDA operational changes based on Vision First metrics |
| Study Deadline | April 1 (extended from January 21, pending City Commission approval) |
| Emporia Mayor’s Proposal | Majority city representation on the RDA board due to funding contribution |
| Vision First Recommendations | Unified economic development organization; eliminate Emporia Enterprises |
| Committee Size | 17 members |
| Final Decision Date | January 21 (Emporia City Commission meeting) |
| Stakeholders Opposing Changes | Emporia Enterprises, Lyon County Commission |
Potential Implications
- Streamlined Development Efforts: If Vision First’s recommendations are implemented, economic development efforts in the region could become more cohesive, reducing redundancy and improving efficiency.
- Enhanced City Influence: Increasing city representation on the RDA board could lead to more alignment with Emporia’s economic priorities.
- Stakeholder Concerns: Balancing city representation with other stakeholders’ interests remains a challenge, as critics argue the proposed changes might marginalize their input.
The RDA’s decision to proceed with the committee formation signals a significant step toward addressing longstanding concerns about economic development in East Central Kansas. As the process unfolds, the region awaits the Emporia City Commission’s approval to move forward with this transformative initiative.
