REAP: Need regional cooperation
The following letter was submitted by Regional Economic Area Partnership executive committee members Carl Koster, Cheney City Council member; Brad Dillon, Reno County commissioner; Dave Unruh, Sedgwick County commissioner; Marcey Gregory, Goddard mayor; Chip Westfall, Harvey County commissioner; Jeff Longwell, Wichita City Council member; and Terry Somers; Mount Hope mayor:
The ongoing structural changes occurring in the global, national and state economies have a direct impact on local governments. The competition for jobs and economic expansion is becoming more and more intense and is no longer just between individual cities and counties but regions.
Local governments in south-central Kansas should not be competing among one another for jobs and business growth, and need a structured and coordinated forum to support regional cooperation. The Regional Economic Area Partnership was formed in 1997 to address these specific needs. Our communities and members are strongly committed to this collaborative model.
REAP does not intend to impose rules and sanctions on its member communities. It is a voluntary organization that helps the region address issues of common concern that do not respect traditional political boundaries, such as transportation, water and workforce development. All of the topics directly affect job creation and business growth in the region.
South-central Kansas is an attractive place to do business. The costs of utilities and property are comparatively low, and there is a variety of activities and attractions for citizens to enjoy.
There are regions across the nation that are actively recruiting new employers, helping existing business to expand and spending public money on infrastructure to grow their economies. We must be proactive in how this region invests its resources to maintain and expand a healthy business environment. Having unified and collaborative strategies in place benefits all local governments in this region.
We invite any interested city and county governments in south-central Kansas to participate in this coalition. REAP also welcomes private-sector partners to consider membership as we work together to grow and strengthen the regional economy.
This story was originally published March 2, 2015 at 6:05 PM with the headline "REAP: Need regional cooperation."