BOARD GOALS & PRIORITIES 2006-2007

MISSION STATEMENT

To Retain, Expand and Attract Preferred Employers That Offer
Good Quality Jobs Throughout Lincoln County

• DEVCO will maintain a strong business retention and expansion program to support the continued growth of our existing business base.

1. DEVCO will maintain good working relationships with the corporate headquarter locations of our existing businesses.
2. DEVCO will undertake a countywide business retention and expansion survey process every other year in conjunction with the Nebraska Department of Economic Development.
3. DEVCO will provide technical assistance and support to existing business and industry as requested.
4. DEVCO will support the development of additional financing tools available for local business expansion.

• DEVCO will continue to implement an aggressive business attraction and development program.

1. DEVCO’s targeted industries shall include: Transportation and Logistics, medical services, food processing, and value-added agriculture.
2. DEVCO will develop and maintain strong personal relationships with regional and national site selection firms and consultants.
3. DEVCO will participate with state-wide development partners in at least 1 national business recruitment trip per year.
4. DEVCO will progressively market North Platte/Lincoln County on a regional and national basis as a great place to live, work, learn and play.
5. DEVCO will continue to play a support role in responding to retailers interested in the region.
6. DEVCO will work cooperatively with Mid-Plains Community College to develop the National Railroad Training Institute in North Platte.

• DEVCO will encourage the growth and enhancement of the local workforce.

1. DEVCO will assist companies who are facing significant labor force needs (i.e. pending retirements or mass hirings).
2. DEVCO will partner with other interested parties to conduct a Come Home Campaign of former North Platte residents.
3. DEVCO will continue to conduct in-depth research of the local labor market, including labor availability, cost and quality.
4. DEVCO will support a wide variety of educational initiatives that better prepare current and future employees for local employment opportunities.

• DEVCO will continue to educate both local resident and leadership about the importance of economic development to the future of our region.

1. DEVCO will make presentations to regional groups, organizations and the media about the importance of economic development in Lincoln County.
2. DEVCO will provide research materials and data to educate local leaders about trends and priorities in business development.
3. DEVCO will produce an annual priorities list and an annual report for distribution to DEVCO members, local leaders and the media.

• DEVCO will actively support public and community projects that comply with our stated mission and support the continued quality growth of the North Platte Region, including the continued development and enhancement of public infrastructure and utilities.

1. DEVCO will support the continued development of public utilities south of Interstate 80 to foster controlled business and residential growth.
2. DEVCO will support the development of additional housing alternatives throughout Lincoln County.
3. DEVCO will support Mid Plains Community College in the planning and development of a Health Sciences Complex.

• DEVCO will support efforts to increase cooperation among local entities and organizations that lead to improved efficiency and effectiveness.