For over a decade, the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) has dedicated an annual day to focus on the community’s future and set ambitious goals for the organization and its members. This year’s strategic planning session brought together leaders from local businesses, government agencies, school boards, and the community to analyze the current state of business in south-central Iowa and explore opportunities for regional growth and development.
“Collaborative efforts like these bring clarity and perspective,” said Andrew B. Clark, CCDC Executive Director. “As we discuss the direction of the CCDC’s efforts, each participant provides unique input that drives the day’s conversation.”
IEDA’s Director, Debi Durham kicked off Tuesday’s strategy sessions with a presentation of economic data from across the state.
Statewide Perspective with Debi Durham
The day commenced with an address from Debi Durham, Executive Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA), who outlined the challenges and opportunities facing Iowa. She highlighted industry categories targeted for future development and addressed issues such as rural growth, sustainability, and the evolving workforce.
“We’re seeing a shift in how businesses recruit and retain team members,” said Durham. “With significant investments in education and recruitment, combined with Iowa’s focus on cost of living, safety, and culture, we are observing a value shift in priorities across changing demographics.”
Durham’s presentation emphasized the growing importance of quality of life and work flexibility, particularly for younger demographics. She also identified key industries for Iowa’s growth, including advanced manufacturing, biosciences, finance, and insurance, predicting substantial growth in these areas over the next decade.
“With the IEDA’s projected growth in advanced manufacturing and technology exceeding 12% from 2022 to 2032, the timing of the ORBIT Center couldn’t have been better,” said Clark.
ORBIT Center and Workforce Development
Set to open in mid-January, the ORBIT Center will focus on advanced manufacturing and technology, supporting the region’s workforce development goals. “Based on our discussions, advanced manufacturing and technology will be at the core of the ORBIT Center’s service to our community,” said Clark.
Collaboration and Key Discussions
The strategic session featured participation from key stakeholders, including representatives from The City of Osceola, Clarke Community Schools, the City of Murray, the Clarke County Board of Supervisors, and industry leaders from companies such as Altec, Iowa Steel, Miller Products, and Paul Mueller Company. Workforce development, technology infrastructure, and water sustainability emerged as recurring themes.
In the afternoon, Smart Solutions Group facilitated evaluations across various economic development verticals. Group discussions addressed challenges such as workforce shortages, infrastructure needs, quality of life improvements, and access to safe, abundant water—a critical resource for industries and communities alike.
“Manufacturers and data centers alike have one major resource need in common,” said Clark. “And that’s a safe and abundant source of water. Every industry, large or small, depends on it.”
Actionable Goals for 2025
Attendees discussed actionable items, and “big goals” focused on increasing community engagement and support. “It takes time to achieve major goals,” said Bob Henningsen from Smart Solutions Group. “But when a diverse group like this focuses on the end results together, it shortens that journey.”
At the conclusion of the session, Smart Solutions Group gathered the day’s insights to develop a strategic plan, including goals, milestones, roles, and potential budgets. The CCDC will use this plan to guide its initiatives in 2025 and beyond.
For more information about the CCDC’s 2025 Strategic Planning session, please contact Andrew B. Clark, Executive Director, Clarke County Development Corporation, Phone: 641-342-2944, Email: [email protected]
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