Author Archives: Clarke County Development Corporation

Osceola, Iowa’s Housing Boom: Working to Meet All Levels of Housing Needs

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- At the beginning of the year, another call into the Clarke County Development Corporation's (CCDC) offices rang, telling Executive Director, Bill Trickey, the Osceola Building Incentive Program is still connecting with home builders and developers. Since its inception in early 2019, the lot program, originally referred to as the "Free Land Program," has resulted in more than a half dozen lots exchanged with developers and home builders in lieu of standard homeowner tax abatements.

The latest call, from husband-and-wife team Andrew and Kaitlyn Harvey of Eighth + Harlow Design and Build out of the Des Moines metro area, saw two more homes on the list of Osceola housing developments from that program, adding to a housing boom across the area that addresses a wide range of income levels.

Kaitlyn Harvey, also a CENTURY 21 Signature Real Estate agent, spoke with the Development Corporation about the housing need to help their customer who was being transferred to Osceola, Iowa for a new job.

"We found about the {incentive} program through extended family when discussing our client's relocation needs," said Harvey. "Their timeframe was a bit more flexible, and the location of the lot fit the family's interests, so why not take advantage of the financing opportunity?"

Their lot, located at 401 Putter Ridge Place in the Country Club Estates area, was reasonably priced, considering its location. Where competing lots in the area were going between $120,000 and $180,000, the Harveys and their clients saw the Putter Ridge Place decision as a "no-brainer" and used the Osceola Building Incentive Program lot price as equity for the development of their 1,600 sq. ft. home. Eighth + Harlow Design and Build also utilized the investment opportunity to purchase the neighboring lot to build a 1,300 sq. ft. spec home.

"Our clients had a budget they needed to stick to, and the program gave us the flexibility to finish out some higher-end detail work and the basement before they permanently moved to the area," said Harvey.

As Kailyn discussed the details of the two homes, both that will fall in the $290,00 to $400,000 price range as new listings, she estimated development of both homes to be complete by August of 2024.

The two new developments in the County Club Estates area added to a housing boom Osceola has been experiencing over the recent 18-24 months.

More than two years ago, local manufacturers communicated their need for workforce housing to maintain employment and help grow their base. To answer that call, a new, 122-unit development will be coming online in the next 30- to 60-days. Another, recently finished, 18-unit condominium off South Gustin was fully leased by November of 2023. As part of the workforce housing tax credit program, Osceola developer, Advanced Homes 360, has delivered 4 new, single-family homes throughout the city and are considering additional plans.

To add to the much-needed workforce housing, mid-level and executive homes continue to go up off Clay, behind Revelton Distillery and at the picturesque Arbor Valley Lake. And, with the City of Osceola and Clarke Community Schools on their second trades housing development project of the school year, it makes more than 160 new front doors and 160 new opportunities across a wide range of income levels hitting the local housing market.

"This is exciting news for our entire community," said Bill Trickey, CCDC Executive Director. "As we continue to build homes at all levels, Osceola and Clarke County should see an influx of new, dedicated community members adding new business and new growth opportunities across the area."

MORE INFORMATION:

If you have questions about the Osceola Building Incentive Program or any of the developments mentioned in this feature, please don't hesitate to reach out to the Clarke County Development Corporation at 115 E Washington Street, P.O. Box 426, Osceola, IA 50213, phone: 641-342-2944, email: info@clarkecountyiowa.com

Learn more at: https://clarkecountylife.com/

MEDIA ONLY CONTACT:

Andrew B. Clark - ClarkeCountyLife

SPOKE Communications, LLC, 5400 SE 30th Street, Des Moines, IA 50320

phone: 515-257-6584, email: andrew@spokecom.com

At the beginning of the year, another call into the Clarke County Development Corporation's (CCDC) offices rang, telling Executive Director, Bill Trickey, the Osceola Building Incentive Program is still connecting with home builders and developers. Since its inception in early 2019, the lot program, originally referred to as the "Free Land Program," has resulted in more than a half dozen lots exchanged with developers and home builders in lieu of standard homeowner tax abatements.

Related link: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Rural Iowa Manufacturing Jobs Surplus Means Big Opportunities

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- It's been a year since the manufacturing industry was hit by the COVID-19 crisis forcing businesses to get creative to manage their workforce assets. In April of 2020, the rural Clarke County, Iowa's unemployment rate jumped from 3.4% to 11.8%, and more than 100,000 workers across the state were displaced, laid off, or simply let go when businesses had to close their doors, says Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC).

Now COVID restrictions have begun to lift and the economy is picking up again, especially for manufacturers in Osceola, Iowa. Unfortunately, many businesses are still struggling in their search for the right candidates to fill key positions.

"We've got 4,700 non-farm jobs and our major manufacturers continue to grow and add staff," said Bill Trickey, Executive Director of the Clarke County Development Corporation. "Now is a great time to find a job in Clarke County."

Major Clarke County employers have a variety of positions available and are casting a wide net to entice the right candidates to the region. Full of lucrative job opportunities, Osceola boasts easy access from Des Moines, Indianola, Norwalk, St. Mary's, Martensdale and many other South-Central Iowa and Northern Missouri cities via I-35 and highways 34 and 92.

"We're certainly in a position where we have more jobs than people to fill them, so we're recruiting from across the state to find the right fit," said Susan Miller, Human Resources Recruiter for the Altec body plant. "While our pay is more than competitive with most Des Moines metro employers, and our benefits package is outstanding, we've found that it's our unique company culture that really makes working here desirable."

In an effort to fill essential manufacturing positions, companies are finding new incentives to draw in applicants, encourage referrals from current employees, and reward retention among the staff. For example, The Paul Mueller Company, manufacturers of stainless steel, food-grade refrigeration and transportation tanks, offers an incremental referral bonus as well as new employee sign-on bonuses awarded at ninety days, six months, and one year.

Altec body plant helps employees attain Bachelor or Masters degrees in the industry by funding online courses through The University of Alabama and offers wellness benefits to employees and their spouses for completing fun and easy challenges. And Iowa Steel gives their regional sales team the opportunity to work from home or remotely as they travel the country to meet with customers, offering an excellent base salary as well as commission.

"We're in the process of growing, locally and nationwide. On top of filling regional sales positions around the country, we're also adding to our Osceola facility in the fall of 2021 and hiring more skilled labor," said Kate Patton, Human Resources Director at Iowa Steel. "Clarke County is full of employers offering diverse opportunities with competitive pay and an excellent work-life balance. We're just looking for the right applicants."

While unemployment rates are relatively low, there is still a lot of work available in rural Iowa, especially in Clarke County. Employers are finding that top pay and benefits aren't the only tools needed to draw in a workforce.

"Money isn't the most important thing people are looking for these days. People are looking at our culture, and finding a place they enjoy coming to every day, and positioning their family to do more than just make ends meet," said Lauren Robins, Human Resources Generalist II for Paul Mueller Company. "On-site training, and a safe and healthy work environment are all important to prospective employees. Most of all they want to know that they're valued and able to be productive and growing for years to come."

Clarke County's manufacturing industry has advantages not found in bigger cities across the state. Factors like job security, educational incentives, and unique, diverse opportunities for advancement are all part of what draws in a workforce that drives the success of the entire community.

For more information about the availability of jobs mentioned in this press release, feel free to reach to the Human Resources department at each company:

- Altec Osceola Body Plant, HR Recruiter, Susan Miller, 641-223-8807, email: susan.miller@altec.com

- Iowa Steel Human Resources Director, Kate Patton, 641-342-2134, email: kpatton@countrysidetank.com

- Paul Mueller Company, Lauren Robins, Human Resources Generalist II, 641-342-5521, email: lrobins@paulmueller.com.

If you'd like to learn more about the manufacturing industry and development opportunities available in Clarke County, Iowa, please reach out to Bill Trickey, Executive Director of the Clarke County Development Corporation, at 641-414-1884 or email: info@clarkedev.com.

It's been a year since the manufacturing industry was hit by the COVID-19 crisis forcing businesses to get creative to manage their workforce assets. In April of 2020, the rural Clarke County, Iowa's unemployment rate jumped from 3.4% to 11.8%, and more than 100,000 workers across the state were displaced, laid off, or simply let go when businesses had to close their doors, says Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC).

Related link: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

South Central Iowa Community Steps Up to Support Senior Care Center

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- Since the WHO announced the Coronavirus / COVID-19 pandemic status in early March, long-term care facilities have been on the front lines of the health and safety battle, notes the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC). With senior citizens being some of the most "at risk" from the virus, the need for protective gear - from essential N95 hospital-grade face-masks to personal protective equipment (PPE), like gloves and gowns - have been in high demand and access has been limited. That's where the manufacturing community in Clarke County and Osceola, Iowa stepped up.

Earlier in the week, the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) started working with the staff at Southern Hills Specialty Care facility in Osceola to procure additional essential supplies to help with the safety and protection of their 89 senior residents. Asking for donations or additional support from the manufacturing industry, Bill Trickey, Executive Director of the CCDC and Destiny Boeve, Administrator for Southern Hills were able to collect a generous supply of masks as well as some other essential items.

Altec's Osceola body plant was instrumental in donations, providing 3,000 latex gloves for the facility. And SIMCO Drilling Equipment, Inc, donated a surplus of high-grade masks and gloves as soon as the call was made.

"Having been part of the Osceola and Clarke County community for decades, we simply wanted to help wherever we could," said Darren Swolley, General Manager at SIMCO. "These are the times when community means more than ever."

Other local businesses, including Cathy's Auto Body and Cactus Farms, were also quick to join in the roundup of supplies. The team at Boyt Harness donated thousands of masks from their Missouri plant to hospitals and facilities in need there.

"This is what makes my job such a pleasure," said Trickey. "When the community is in need, our business network knows how to deliver."

Southern Hills staff members, residents, family members and friends alike have joined together to help with the cause, sewing from mask templates for residents and staffers to use while other donation efforts are in the works. Boeve's own grandmother, Kathy Klein sewed 100 masks for the staff and is working on washable gowns for the program. Southern Hills staffer and CNA, Amy Allen brought her seamstress talents back in her off hours just to help with the production as well.

With the influx of masks and gloves, the need for other safety materials has become a priority. Materials for sewing additional masks as well as gowns and other PPEs are still needed to help the staff properly care for the residents.

"We couldn't be more blessed," said Boeve. "Our community really knows how to come together in a time of crisis."

Boeve went on to stress the need for basic sewing materials like needles and thread for additional masks for mending gowns. And the donation of more N95 masks, gowns, or PPEs remains on the priority list for the foreseeable future.

If you have access to the items needed for the care of the residents at Southern Hills or have items you can donate, please reach out to Destiny Boeve at Southern Hills Care Center, 444 N W View Drive, Osceola, IA 50213, phone: 641-342-6061.

Learn more about the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC): https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Since the WHO announced the Coronavirus / COVID-19 pandemic status in early March, long-term care facilities have been on the front lines of the health and safety battle, notes the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC).

Related link: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Free Land Incentives Hope to Spur on Spring New Home Construction

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- Spring is finally here and with it comes the start of the building season. Families are looking to build new homes, developers are looking for prime real estate, and contractors are itching to get back in the field after a long, hard winter. As part of an ongoing housing development initiative, Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) has been working with the city of Osceola to offer home builders and developers shovel-ready sites at no cost for residential projects.

The initiative also extends reimbursements on interest for construction loans for up to a 12-month period. The CCDC launched this Zero-Cost Land Development initiative in 2017 as an effort to capitalize on the recent growth trends and development throughout south-central Iowa. While tax abatements and other incentives are offered throughout the state, the concept of Zero-Cost Development offers builders and developers a bigger opportunity for establishing profitable programs throughout the city.

The workforce in Iowa is experiencing unprecedented low unemployment, making businesses work harder to attract the best and the brightest qualified employees. CCDC and the city of Osceola are working together to help provide a big incentive for local businesses offering executive, management, and long-term employment candidates custom housing solutions. Local affordable housing programs such as Kading Properties' Meadows Development have been a huge success and there is plenty of opportunity for developers to meet the needs of those looking for more.

"Development land in the Des Moines Metro area can set builders back $80,000 to $200,000 per lot or more," said Bill Trickey, Executive Director of Clarke County Development Corporation. "Osceola is close to metro amenities with a quality of life you can't find in larger cities. Continuously developing and improving, the city offers a sense of community and safety among neighbors, providing peace of mind for growing families."

Osceola's major benefits include over 4,600 non-farming jobs, a quality school district advanced beyond some suburban Metro schools, and several quality of life developments like an expanding trail system, improved city parks, lakes and land for hunting, fishing and limitless outdoor recreation. City officials and the CCDC hope the Zero-Cost Land Development initiative will continue to strengthen neighborhoods and encourage families to call Osceola home.

If you're a builder looking for a low-cost entry into a competitive market, contact Bill Trickey at the Clarke County Development Corporation at info@clarkecountyiowa.com or 641-342-2944 to learn more about the Zero-Cost Development initiative.

Learn more about Clarke County at: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Spring is finally here and with it comes the start of the building season. As part of an ongoing housing development initiative, Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) has been working with the city of Osceola to offer home builders and developers shovel-ready sites at no cost for residential projects.

Related link: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

CCDC Celebrates 50 Years of Community Commitment and Success

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- This year marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC). In August of 1969, the development corporation that has brought Osceola and Clarke County, Iowa numerous business and economic successes including Jimmy Dean and Hormel as well as the boon of Lakeside Casino all started from the passion of a few locals ready to push the community they loved toward a brighter future.

The original founders and board members included Eddy Saylor, Fred Wood, L.P. Van Werden, Jack Jeffreys, Ross Gould, Stan Samuelson, Gerald Edwards, and Donald Ramsey.

These founders developed a plan that would form an economic development corporation focused on attracting new business, supporting existing area business, and improving the quality of live for the entire community.

Making sure to build the corporation on a not-for-profit, 501(c)(6) structure meant the corporation, with a board of directors made up of active local businesses and citizens, would work together to drive local and regional economic growth. The elected board would operate on behalf of the existing business and community members maintaining accountability to its core values, the members and the community. This structure has been at the core of its operations since its founding.

"A lot can happen over five decades," said Bill Trickey, CCDC Executive Director. "When you have a board and membership as consistently driven for success and growth as we've had with the CCDC, what transpires is economic sustainability."

Right out of the gate, the CCDC board took action to purchase and break ground for development of an 87-acre industrial business park on the south side of the city. Over the next decade, the board recruited businesses such as Osceola State Bank, Metal Craft Engineering (Now SIMCO Drilling Rigs & Equipment, Inc.), and Jimmy Dean Meat Company as the first tenants. Throughout the 70's and early 80's additional businesses moved in and the necessary infrastructure was developed made up of a water tower and another 68 acres with sewer and street construction. Today many of Clarke County's anchor employers like Altec (originally Furnas and then Astoria), Salford Manufacturing (previously Maclander), Osceola Foods (Hormel) and SIMCO do business from this park, serving customers all over the world.

Understanding the logistical blessings of Osceola, Iowa - placed at the intersection of I-35, Highway 34 and Highway 69, as well as a local stop to the BNSF Railway - made the addition of an airport and improvements to interstate access a logical next step in drawing more business and industry to the area. The CCDC board acted on those activities through the 80s and 90s, even while some of the nation's biggest cities and rural areas were struggling with hard economic times.

In the 90s, upon hearing the city council in Des Moines, Iowa was passing on the addition of a casino to the south side of its downtown, board President Eddy Saylor and other CCDC members decided to take on the recruitment of Lakeside Casino Resort for Clarke County. Through aggressive campaigning driven by a passion for development and progress, the deal was made to break ground for the riverboat on West Lake late in 2000 with The Development Corporation securing the gambling license. This would prove to be a "game changer" for the entire area.

"The casino was a big shot in the arm for the area," said Helen Kimes, CCDC Board Member and past president. "With the county and the cities of Murray and Woodburn sharing the profits made from the boat, development opportunities in the area were given an incredible boost."

Since the addition of the casino, grant opportunities through the Development Corporation have made a positive impact across Clarke County. This included updates to the Clarke County Hospital in the early 2000s, with further renovations and expansion over the last few years. Clarke County continues to benefit from the CCDC grants, allowing the hospital to provide award-winning emergency services and medical care. Community programs like Tech Prep Housing, Paint the Town Red, Safe Routes to School with miles of recreational trail expansions, Neighbors Helping Neighbors, and the support for The Village Daycare continue to improve the quality of life in Clarke County.

With the addition of the E. Eddy Saylor Industrial Park for businesses like Osceola Farm and Home, Boyt Harness, Alliant Energy, and Iowa Steel, employment opportunities have increased, as have contributions to the county's tax base, keeping the vision of the original founders like Eddy Saylor moving forward.

With thousands of jobs created for the county since its inception in 1969, the Clarke County Development Corporation shows no sign of slowing. Expansions for the Saylor Business Park this year as well as closing in on the development of the Clarke County Reservoir mean even more opportunities to bring business and growth to the area can be seen on the horizon. So, join the CCDC, their board, and members in celebrating this half century milestone and wish them luck for the next 50 years.

If you have questions about the Development Corporation or would like to participate as a member, contact Bill Trickey, Executive Director at the Clarke County Development Corporation, 115 E Washington St, Osceola, IA 50213, Phone: (641) 342-2944, email: info@osceolaclarkedev.com

More information on the CCDC: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

This year (2019) marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC). In August of 1969, the development corporation that has brought Osceola and Clarke County, Iowa numerous business and economic successes.

Related link: https://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Rural South-Central Iowa Sees Over $480,000 in Grant Windfall for Local Organizations

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- Rural organizations throughout south-central Iowa, specifically, the city of Osceola and Clarke County Iowa look to their development corporation, the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC), for grants and other assistance to add value and benefits to the communities they serve.

Earlier this spring, with the assistance of funding from Osceola's Lakeside Casino (lakesidehotelcasino.com), a number of organizations realized over $480,000 in grants approved and distributed for various projects and causes by the CCDC board.

Some of the grants awarded include:

* Clarke County received a $25,000 grant for improvements to secondary roads and bridges throughout the county. Residents rely on the rural secondary roads for travel so the County will be purchasing maintenance equipment and will upgrade bridge safety, rebuilding where necessary, adding culverts and laying down and grading new gravel throughout the County.

* The Village Early Childhood Center in Osceola was awarded a CCDC grant of $150,000 to pay off the building's mortgage and other bills as well as $93,500 to help pay for Geothermal Heating / Cooling units at the site. The City of Osceola and Clarke County will also make contributions to The Village to help pay off the mortgage.

* The area's East Lake trail projects will continue to move forward thanks to an incredible $100,000 The CCDC grant disbursement will go toward completion of the paved trail that connects East Lake Park to the elementary school and extending the Safe Routes program. Already this summer, the park has hosted over 200 third graders a group from Murray for fishing, and spent a full day with Clarke fifth graders. Concrete should be laid in the fall, giving students easy access to the park without relying on costly bus transportation.

* The Murray School District was granted $75,000 for district-wide technology upgrades and the integration of smart tablets for all students from elementary through 12th.

* Clarke County Cattlemen's Association was approached by the Clarke County Fair Board over the winter regarding the need to make the fairgrounds handicap accessible. Since the Fair Board is already tied up with other projects, the Cattlemen's Association has been raising funds to lay concrete in the cattle barn. With a $9,000 grant from CCDC and the Association's own fundraising efforts, concrete will cover the whole cattle barn, except for the cattle stalls. The project is projected to be completed in time for the County Fair this summer.

* Clarke County Fairgrounds will be able rewire much of the infrastructure with the help of a $12,000 grant.

* Clarke Community High School's chapter of the FCCLA received $3,500 to help student finalists travel to their National Competition.

* Community Health Centers received $20,492 to help with the purchase of new equipment to be used at the new Mental Health Emergency center.

* Families First, located in Osceola, received their annual contribution of $15,000 that helps with field trips, back packs for students, swim passes and more.

* The City of Osceola was awarded a grant to cover the costs of demolition of dilapidated and dangerous abandoned structures. These houses and other buildings are eyesores and potential hazards for fires and structural collapse. CCDC has awarded a grant of $5,000 to the city's program that removes these buildings and paves the way for new homes and businesses.

"With the assistance we receive from the casino, funding community grants like these helps the CCDC board impact our community's future and improve the community's collective quality of life and, correspondingly, our business viability," said Bill Trickey, Executive Director of the Clarke County Development Corporation.

The Clarke County Development Corporation holds monthly public meetings where opportunities like those listed above as well as the actions the CCDC board will be taking each month are discussed. Organizations interested in participating in the development corporation or would like more information on grants or activities through the CCDC are encouraged to attend.

If you have any questions about the grant process or becoming a member of Clarke County Development Corporation, please contact Bill Trickey, Executive Director, at 641-342-2944, email: info@clarkecountyiowa.com or go to the CCDC Web site: http://osceolaclarkedev.com/.

Rural organizations throughout south-central Iowa, specifically, the city of Osceola and Clarke County Iowa look to their development corporation, the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC), for grants and other assistance to add value and benefits to the communities they serve.

Related link: http://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds Scheduled to Honor Veterans at Clarke County Freedom Rock Dedication

MURRAY, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- Clarke County, Iowa's favorite daughter, Governor Kim Reynolds will join hundreds of community members, leaders and veterans in a ceremonial dedication of Clarke County's Freedom Rock. On Saturday, November 11, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., the latest installment by Freedom Rock painter, Ray "Bubba" Sorensen, will be the site of a Veteran's Day celebration and dedication. Those in attendance will hear from Governor Reynolds, along with local leadership, military officials, and community members from throughout south-central Iowa.

The dedication ceremony will be held at the recently constructed Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall, located at the Murray Cemetery off Highway 34 and County Highway R16.

Jason Gibbs, member of the Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall Committee said the program should last about 30 minutes, and guests are invited to lunch at the Murray High School following the program.

Seating will be limited, so guests are encouraged to arrive early, use the shuttle services available from Murray, Osceola, and the Bunn Manufacturing locations and to bring their own lawn chairs.

About the Clarke County Freedom Rock:

Sorensen began painting the original Freedom Rock, located north of Greenfield, Iowa, in 1999 after being inspired by the movie "Saving Private Ryan."

His original rock, which was painted with a new design each Memorial Day, quickly garnered local, regional and national recognition. Sorensen soon decided to spread the message of the Freedom Rock by committing to painting a Freedom Rock in each of Iowa's 99 counties and beyond. According to TheFreedomRock.com Web site, the Clarke County Freedom Rock is 67th of 68 current honorary displays.

Since Sorensen designs each rock to represent the military members and history of each county, Sorensen and the Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall committee started conversations in the fall of 2015 to brainstorm ideas and themes for the rock being dedicated on Saturday.

"That usually means finding specific veterans," Sorensen said while working on another Freedom Rock in Cresco. "We landed on killed in action. That's why the front side of that (rock) is a gold star family member clutching a flag that was given to them and the ghost of the fallen soldier touching her."

The front face of the Clarke County Freedom Rock also features a quote from Abraham Lincoln.

The back face of the Clarke County Freedom Rock, facing the Honor Wall, features illustrations of Maxton Daniel, Raymond Harris, George Horton, Herschel Oehlert and Bert Keeler - Clarke County residents who were killed in action.

The west side of the rock features a large red bull logo, signifying the 34th Infantry Division, which Highway 34 is named after.

"There was a guy from Garner, Iowa, driving by and he saw that red bull's face," Gibbs said. "It's got great history. This guy's dad was in the 34th Infantry Division. That was something Bubba added and thought would be appropriate. I'm so glad he did. That's a big deal to tens of thousands of people."

The Clarke County Freedom Rock Honor Wall:

Constructed behind the Freedom Rock is the Clarke County Freedom Rock Honor Wall, which gives individuals the opportunity to have a veteran's name engraved into plaques placed on the wall. To date, the Honor Wall has plaques representing over 450 veterans from Clarke County and surrounding areas. The Honor Wall is not limited to veterans who lived in Clarke County.

Gibbs said the committee wanted to give everyone an opportunity to have their veteran recognized on the wall, especially since there will be people from all over the country visiting the Freedom Rock and Honor Wall.

Plaques for the Honor Wall can be purchased by contacting Gibbs at 641-414-1117.

Governor Reynolds and Clarke County:

Iowa Governor, Kim Reynolds, has a special connection with the community in Clarke County. A southern Iowa native, Reynolds started her political career serving four terms as the Clarke County Treasurer before moving on to the Iowa Senate representing district 48 in 2008. In 2011, Governor Terry Branstad hand-picked Reynolds as Lieutenant Governor where she served until Branstad's departure in 2016.

For more information on the Clarke County Freedom Rock Project and the Clarke County Freedom Rock Honor Wall, contact Jason Gibbs Clarke County Freedom Rock and Honor Wall Committee at 641-414-1117.

Learn more about Clarke County at: http://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Drone Video footage of the Clarke County Freedom Rock site can be found at: https://vimeo.com/241939685

Video and photos provided by Andrew Clark and SPOKE Communications, LLC.

Clarke County, Iowa's favorite daughter, Governor Kim Reynolds will join hundreds of community members, leaders and veterans in a ceremonial dedication of Clarke County's Freedom Rock. On Saturday, November 11, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., the latest installment by Freedom Rock painter, Ray "Bubba" Sorensen, will be the site of a Veteran's Day celebration and dedication. Those in attendance will hear from Governor Reynolds, along with local leadership, military officials, and community members from throughout south-central Iowa.

Related link: http://osceolaclarkedev.com/

Free Land and Incentives for Builders Looking to Develop in Osceola, Iowa

OSCEOLA, Iowa /ScoopCloud/ -- As part of a new housing development initiative, Osceola, Iowa's Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) is offering home builders and developers shovel-ready sites at no cost for residential projects as well as reimbursements on interest for construction loans for a 12-month period. The CCDC launched the Zero-Cost Development initiative in an effort to capitalize on the recent growth trends and development throughout south central Iowa. While tax abatements and other incentives are offered throughout the state, the concept of Zero-Cost Development offers builders and developers a bigger opportunity for establishing profitable programs throughout Osceola.

Even with Iowa's housing bubble leveling out and market prices becoming steady, builders are still seeing costs of materials and equipment climb. Tax abatements offered to buyers still leave builders struggling to cover the gap costs between development and sale of the homes. If a home sits on the market longer than 60 or 90 days, many builders can see a considerable loss of revenue and even end up losing profit altogether on the development. By offering the builders and developers Zero-Cost, shovel-ready land, the initial investment for the building is considerably lower and gives an advantage back to the builder before the sale. By also providing reimbursements for construction loans over a 12-month period, the builder can better manage their investment risks - enabling faster return and reinvestment of moneys for additional development.

Over the last decade, Osceola and Clarke County's population and workforce have steadily grown at a time when many rural areas are losing residents in droves. With a population of over 5,000, Osceola offers over 4,400 non-farm jobs, making it a hub for commerce for southern Iowa counties. As commerce continues to expand, a sense of community is growing and the urgency to build homes to suit the burgeoning workforce has become a priority.

"Development Land in Des Moines, Waukee and Ankeny as well as surrounding communities can cost builders upwards of $80,000 to $200,000 per lot. By offering developers free, shovel-ready lots, they're given the opportunity to build quality homes at an affordable price and pass that savings on to the buyers," Bill Trickey, Executive Director of Clarke County Development Corporation stated. "With Osceola's proximity to metropolitan amenities added to a quality of life you can't find in larger cities, developing in Osceola offers safe neighborhoods for children, a sense of community among neighbors, and peace of mind for growing families."

The goal of the Zero-Cost Development initiative is to encourage an economical connection to an estimated 2,500 commuters in Osceola, helping them become not only a permanent asset to the local workforce but be part of the community as well. Research has shown, when families put down roots in Osceola, their children and generations to follow are likely to remain a part of the community.

"The key is giving them the resources to plant roots," Trickey continued.

Employment opportunities and a quality school district are two of the city's bigger selling points. At just under 1,400 students, the Clarke school district is small but advanced beyond even some suburban Iowa schools. The district recently integrated over 1,500 Chromebooks, offering each student a chance to take this technology home. It's an attractive option for families who'd prefer a smaller district without sacrificing quality of technology and curriculum.

Families in Osceola also benefit from several new recreational developments, including an expanding trail system, city parks, and the future development of a community Recreation Center.

Officials hope the Zero-Cost Development initiative will continue to strengthen the area's neighborhoods, encouraging families to call Osceola home.

If you're a builder who is interested in the Zero-Cost Development initiative and would like to see if your project qualifies, contact Bill Trickey at the Clarke County Development Corporation at info@clarkecountyiowa.com or 641-342-2944.

More information: http://www.clarkecountyiowa.com/.

As part of a new housing development initiative, Osceola, Iowa's Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) is offering home builders and developers shovel-ready sites at no cost for residential projects as well as reimbursements on interest for construction loans for a 12-month period. The CCDC launched the Zero-Cost Development initiative in an effort to capitalize on the recent growth trends and development throughout south central Iowa.

CCDC’s Trickey Appointed to State Advisory Board

OSCEOLA, Iowa, April 27, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Clarke County Development Corporation's Executive Director, Bill Trickey, was recently appointed to the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) State Advisory Board. The Iowa SBDC offers high quality assistance to current and future Iowa business owners. As a member, Trickey will influence decisions that benefit businesses and job creation throughout the state, discuss current business trends and play an important role in communicating the needs of the business community to Iowa lawmakers. So, what makes Trickey qualified for the job?

In 1979, Trickey received his MBA from Rockhurst College, four years after leaving the Air Force. He spent the next two decades honing his business management and sales process knowledge, ultimately joining the Des Moines Buccaneers Hockey program in 2002 as COO. In 2006, Trickey became the Executive Director of the Clarke County Development Corporation. He commuted from Des Moines for a year, then eventually made Osceola his permanent residence.

As Trickey reflects on his first year at Clarke County Development Corporation, he remembers a friend saying "don't take that job in Osceola, you'll never get out of there."

He chuckles, "It was true, but I don't regret it." In nine years at Clarke County Development Corporation, Trickey has seen the city through an abundance of growth and achievements. Some of his most notable achievements include securing the Turkey Hatchery, Iowa Steel, the Salford plant and Astoria Industries (now Altec) as Osceola businesses.

Clarke County Development Corporation has won four celebrated awards under Trickey's leadership. In 2014, Osceola became the seventh community in the state to earn the Connected Community Certification. "We're always working to ensure our local businesses have every advantage possible," said Trickey during the award ceremony. To earn the certification, the city of Osceola ensured maximum access to broadband supported technologies. In the same year, the city was designated as a Skilled Iowa city and a Home Base Iowa Community. The Skilled Iowa Initiative helps link workers with essential skills to employers with open job positions. As a Home Base Iowa Community, Clarke County is committed to offering resources and incentives for veterans.

In 2013, Osceola won the IADG Silver Shovel Award, which honors outstanding leadership, innovation and achievement in business and community development.

Prior to being appointed to the State Advisory Board, Trickey served on the Creston SBDC Regional Board. He has also served as an Executive Committee member with the Southern Iowa Council of Governments, and is an adjunct professor at Southwestern Community College where he teaches a variety of business classes.

As a State Advisory Board member, Trickey plans to introduce new trends to Clarke County and expand Osceola's business community. "My goal is to establish Osceola as a place that fosters startups and helps young companies grow and flourish," says Trickey. With more than 30 years of experience and over a decade of growing Iowa commerce, Clarke County's Executive Director remains passionate and optimistic about the future of Iowa businesses, especially their future in Osceola.

More information: http://ClarkeCountyIowa.com/.

*Photo Caption: William (Bill) Trickey, Executive Director for Clarke County Development Corporation.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/ccdc-s-trickey-appointed-to-state-advisory-board-2016-0427-03.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Clarke County Development Corporation :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Clarke County Labor Study Reveals Higher Income Potential

OSCEOLA, Iowa, Aug. 4, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) recently released its "Scorecard on Jobs and Compensation Update for 2004 to 2014." The report shows, over a the last decade, the average income level for manufacturing jobs in Clarke County consistently outpaced average county compensation levels.

Even through the economic downturns seen in 2007, 2008 and later, salary levels in the manufacturing sector increased by $15,000 to $46,000 whereas average County income levels progressed slower with increases of $9,000 to $34,000.

This study reveals, through concerted efforts from the CCDC and local business leadership, job sustainability, specifically in manufacturing, helped support the community through our recent recession and shows to be a staple for a stronger economic future.

Bill Trickey, CEO of Clarke County Development Corporation, said, "We knew Clarke County and Osceola had great potential for building a sustainable manufacturing base in southern Iowa. With the unique assets our county provides, from transportation to land and infrastructure access, businesses can be secure in offering compensation that is competitive with much larger areas."

Research has shown, compensation levels for Clarke County compared to other similarly sized communities are as much as 8 percent to 10 percent higher. When averaging manufacturing jobs within the county, county-wide payroll levels for those jobs, as well as the average earnings within that county, Clarke surpasses surrounding county rates at $22.32 per hour per job whereas Jasper, Union, and Madison counties fall short at $20 or less.

"While other communities need to rely heavily on ag, retail, and other sectors for their income base, Clarke County is able to take advantage of our unique location and resources to help manufacturing really grow here," Trickey Said.

Based on these reports, if future compensation rates stay consistent with the last decade, manufacturing employment and earning potentials will continue to surge in Clarke County. As the National economy continues to recover, the steady growth and compensation potential for Clarke County and Osceola are positioned to lead the state across all economic recovery and growth charts.

Since 1969, the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) has worked with local government and businesses, recruiting and establishing new industry and business for the area to augment employment and growth opportunities for the residents of Clarke County and Osceola, Iowa.

More information: http://ClarkeCountyIowa.com/.

For more information, contact:
Bill Trickey, CEO, at 641-342-2944, or email: info@clarkecountyiowa.com.

Clarke County Development Corporation, 115 East Washington, Osceola, IA 50213.

* View report graph: http://i2.wp.com/clarkecountylife.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/manufacturing-compensation-income-rates-clarke-county-iowa.jpg

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/clarke-county-labor-study-reveals-higher-income-potential-2015-0804-02.shtml.