Emporia City Commissioner Tyler Curtis views the proposed changes to the Regional Development Association (RDA) board as a pivotal opportunity to enhance local economic development. Contrary to perceptions of a takeover, Curtis believes this restructuring can introduce fresh perspectives and drive growth in Emporia.
Current RDA Board Structure and Proposed Changes
The RDA board currently comprises seven members: two appointees from the City of Emporia, two from the Lyon County Commission, one from the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce, one from Emporia Enterprises, and an at-large member agreed upon by these representatives.
The City Commission has proposed a reorganization to secure a majority representation on the RDA board, reflecting its role as the sole financial contributor to the agency. This proposal includes appointing members involved in emerging industries and small business owners to infuse new ideas into the city’s economic strategies.
Emporia’s Economic Challenges
Commissioner Curtis has highlighted several concerning economic trends in Emporia:
- Population Decline: A decrease of over 8% since 2007, with the population dropping from approximately 26,300 in 2007 to just over 24,000 in 2024.
- Employment Reduction: A decline of more than 13% in fully employed individuals during the same period.
- Median Household Income Lag: In 2007, Emporia’s median household income was around $34,000, approximately $16,000 below the national median. By 2023, it had risen to nearly $53,000, still trailing the national median of over $80,000.
Rationale for Board Restructuring
Given these challenges, the City Commission argues that increased representation on the RDA board is essential to effectively address Emporia’s economic issues. Commissioner Susan Brinkman emphasized that, despite the city providing 100% of the RDA’s funding, it currently holds only two seats on the board.
The proposed restructuring aims to:
- Align Representation with Funding: Ensure the city’s financial contributions are matched by appropriate influence over economic development decisions.
- Introduce Diverse Perspectives: Include individuals from emerging industries and small businesses to foster innovative approaches to economic challenges.
- Enhance Board Engagement: Transform the RDA into a “true working board,” with members actively contributing to initiatives, supporting projects, and serving as ambassadors for the organization’s mission.
Potential Consequences of Inaction
The City Commission has set a deadline of January 21 for the RDA to implement the requested changes. Failure to comply may lead the city to reconsider its annual funding allocation to the RDA, which could significantly impact the agency’s operations, given its complete reliance on city funding.
Commissioner Curtis’s Vision for Emporia
Since his appointment in August 2024, Commissioner Tyler Curtis has prioritized job creation, housing development, and infrastructure improvements. He advocates for:
- Attracting New Businesses: Drawing retail and industrial enterprises to stimulate economic growth.
- Developing Quality Housing: Offering diverse housing options to meet the needs of current and future residents.
- Upgrading Infrastructure: Maintaining and improving roads and utilities to support sustainable development.
Curtis envisions Emporia as a community that embraces change while preserving its unique character, making it inclusive and appealing to all age groups.
Emporia’s Economic Indicators (2007-2023)
| Indicator | 2007 | 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | ~26,300 | ~24,000 | -8.7% |
| Fully Employed Individuals | N/A | N/A | -13% |
| Median Household Income | ~$34,000 | ~$53,000 | +55.9% |
| National Median Income | ~$50,000 | ~$80,000 | +60% |
Note: Specific numbers for fully employed individuals were not provided.
Commissioner Tyler Curtis perceives the proposed RDA board restructuring as a strategic move to address Emporia’s economic challenges. By aligning board representation with the city’s financial contributions and incorporating diverse perspectives, the initiative aims to revitalize economic development efforts and secure a prosperous future for Emporia.
FAQs
What is the current structure of the RDA board?
The RDA board consists of seven members: two appointees from the City of Emporia, two from the Lyon County Commission, one from the Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce, one from Emporia Enterprises, and an at-large member agreed upon by these representatives.
Why is the City Commission proposing changes to the RDA board?
The City Commission seeks greater representation on the RDA board to match its role as the sole financial contributor and to introduce new perspectives that can address Emporia’s economic challenges.
What are the economic challenges facing Emporia?
Emporia has experienced a population decline of over 8% since 2007, a reduction in fully employed individuals by more than 13%, and median household incomes lagging behind national averages.
