Hailey
Emporia’s quick-response group is making a major change in how it works. It used to only come together when a big problem happened, like a large company shutting down. Now, the team is becoming a full-time standing committee.
This shift is happening because more and more people need help—not just due to one event, but because of broader challenges in the local job market. This new approach aims to give constant support to workers and businesses in the area.
From Temporary Group to Full-Time Committee
The Rapid Response Team in Emporia is changing from an on-call group into a permanent Workforce Committee.
This means they will work all year, not just when sudden job losses occur. The goal is to plan ahead, provide early help, and ensure businesses and workers can succeed before problems get too big.
Why the Change Is Needed
The recent shutdown of Tyson Foods operations in the area was a major blow to the community. While that event created an urgent need for help, the challenges go far beyond one closure.
Robin Emley, Secretary of the Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas, explained that demand for services has been rising in general. People from across the community are seeking help, even if their workplaces haven’t shut down.
According to the latest numbers:
- Emporia’s jobless rate is now 5.8%, the highest among all cities in Kansas.
- Lyon County has an unemployment rate of 5.3%, ranking third among counties.
- The state average is 3.8%, while the national average has risen to 4.2%.
- Lyon County has about 220 fewer people working compared to last year.
- Kansas overall has lost around 2,300 jobs since the same time last year.
These figures make it clear: the old system of responding only after layoffs isn’t enough anymore. The community needs ongoing action.
What the Workforce Committee Will Do
Before, the Rapid Response Team would step in only after layoffs or closures. Now, as a Workforce Committee, its mission will be to:
- Reduce barriers that make it hard for businesses to hire or keep employees.
- Expand workforce development programs to train and guide workers.
- Create talent pipelines so local employers can find skilled workers more easily.
- Focus on long-term planning instead of reacting to emergencies.
This will involve working closely with schools, training centers, community organizations, and businesses to build a stronger local workforce.
The Role of Community Partnerships
Interim RDA President Lyle Butler stressed the importance of teamwork in this new approach. He said, “Community partnerships are the backbone of our programs.
Together we rise; supporting services, retaining workers, and strengthening our businesses.” This shows the committee will work with many groups to share resources, build opportunities, and help workers succeed.
Then vs. Now
| Feature | Before (Rapid Response) | Now (Workforce Committee) |
|---|---|---|
| Trigger | Layoffs, business closures | Ongoing community support |
| Work Mode | As-needed meetings | Standing committee, year-round planning |
| Focus | React to crises | Proactive workforce development |
| Key Activities | Crisis response | Training, hiring support, building talent pipelines |
| Partners Involved | Response agencies | Businesses, schools, agencies, community groups |
| Goal | Help laid-off workers | Strengthen economy and retain workers |
Why This Matters for Emporia
This change means more than just a new name. It’s a new way of thinking about economic health.
- More jobs can be created and kept.
- Workers will get training and opportunities before problems arise.
- Businesses can hire more easily and plan for growth.
- The local economy will be more resilient in tough times.
Emporia’s decision to turn its Rapid Response Team into a permanent Workforce Committee is a major step toward building a stable and thriving local economy. With unemployment rates among the highest in Kansas, the city can no longer afford to only react to crises.
By removing hiring barriers, expanding training opportunities, and creating stronger links between workers and businesses, Emporia is taking control of its future. This proactive approach will help families, strengthen businesses, and protect the community from future job losses.