Change in Economic Development

Ten years ago, if you would have asked me what economic development looked like in our part of Kansas, I’d have said something about keeping businesses afloat, finding ways to support our local entrepreneurs, and doing our best to keep young people from leaving.

Back then, it felt like we were constantly plugging holes in the boat. But today, I see a community sailing forward—with purpose, creativity, and grit.

I remember when the Workforce Alliance first partnered with us in 2015. We were trying to do more than just help people find jobs—we wanted to build a system that supported both workers and employers in the long run. That partnership helped open new doors and gave us resources we hadn’t had before.

One moment that really stands out to me is the launch of the Caldwell Workspace in 2020. It was more than a physical space—it was a signal. A signal that even small towns could be hubs of innovation, collaboration, and community growth. Partnering with KanOkla and the City of Caldwell made that vision real.

If you have driven through Caldwell, Wellington, or Argonia, you’ve probably noticed the murals. They aren’t just pretty paint—they’re signs of a cultural shift. Art is economic development, too. It draws people in. It makes locals proud. And it sparks conversations about who we are and where we’re going.

These mural projects have brought in volunteers, donors, and out-of-town visitors. They’ve helped us claim our identity with color and creativity.

Of course, not everything that’s changed has been visible on Main Street. National trends have found their way into our lives, whether we asked for them or not. The gig economy is one of those things.

A decade ago, most people around here had traditional jobs. Now, more folks are working remotely, freelancing, or picking up side hustles. It’s flexible, sure, but it also comes with fewer safety nets.

I’ve also watched families wrestle with rising college costs. Tuition has skyrocketed—up more than 50% in ten years, while wages haven’t kept up. That’s made planning for the future a lot harder, especially for parents trying to send their kids off to school.

Something that’s struck me recently is how much Americans still crave front porches—literal ones. Nationwide, builders are putting them into more homes than ever, and it makes sense. Porches are about connection. They’re where we wave at neighbors, drink coffee, and watch the world go by.

We may not live in Atlanta, where projects like “Front Porch” are reviving entire streets, but I think there’s something powerful in that kind of investment in community—whether
it’s new housing, co-working spaces, or simply better sidewalks.

So where does that leave us?

I believe economic development in the next decade will need to be just as creative and people centered as the muralists who brought life back to our walls. It’ll take flexible workspaces, investment in childcare (yes, we’re working on that too!), a commitment to fairness, and housing that meets the needs of growing and aging families alike.

Most of all, it’ll take us—neighbors, leaders, volunteers, dreamers. People who are willing to build something better and more beautiful, right here at home.

From where I sit—on my own front porch—it’s clear we’re not just surviving anymore. We’re growing. We’re creating. And we’re proud to be Sumner!