Development Corporation Staff Attend WKREDA Quarterly Meeting in Liberal

Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation staff recently attended the Western Kansas Rural Economic Development Alliance (WKREDA) Quarterly Meeting, held September 2–3 in Liberal. The meeting brought together economic development professionals, community partners, and state leaders from across western Kansas to share ideas, discuss regional priorities, and learn about tools and resources available to support rural communities.

The first day of the meeting focused on economic development strategic planning, including a presentation and sharing session that gave attendees an opportunity to exchange ideas and discuss approaches being used in communities throughout western Kansas. The agenda also included sessions on leveraging artificial intelligence for economic development, followed by an interactive workshop where members shared AI tools and practical ways they are incorporating the technology into their work. 

The second day included the WKREDA business meeting and a legislative panel featuring Sen. Bill Clifford, Rep. Shannon Francis, and Rep. Lon Pishny. The panel provided attendees an opportunity to hear directly from southwest Kansas legislators and discuss issues and priorities impacting economic development and rural communities throughout the region. The meeting concluded with updates from regional and state resource partners. 

“WKREDA is a great opportunity for communities across western Kansas to learn from one another and work together on many of the challenges and opportunities we share,” said Mollea Lightner, Assistant Director of Economic Development. “Whether we are talking about workforce, housing, business development, or new technology, these relationships allow us to share what is working and bring new ideas and resources back to Dodge City and Ford County.”

Lightner also serves as Vice President of the WKREDA Board, helping support the organization’s efforts to strengthen collaboration among economic development professionals and communities throughout western Kansas.

The Development Corporation’s involvement in WKREDA provides opportunities to build relationships with economic development professionals, legislators, and resource partners while staying informed about programs, policies, and emerging practices that can benefit Dodge City, Ford County, and the broader western Kansas region.