Iola City Council members will discuss plans to increase the city’s economic development investment at their meeting Monday.
When drafting Iola’s 2023 spending plan earlier this year, Council members increased the budget authority to $50,000 annually to Thrive Allen County for economic development, up from $20,000.
City Administrator Matt Rehder noted Iola spends significantly less than many other similar-sized communities across the state.
“This increase in funding doesn’t necessarily get us to the funding level of the surrounding cities and counties but is definitely a step in the right direction,” Rehder wrote in his agenda notes to the Council. “This funding amount will allow our economic development director more flexibility in pursuing training and potential leads in attracting improvements to the community.”
Other entities also paying Thrive for economic development are Allen County, $30,000, Iola Industries, $20,000, and Humboldt, $17,000.
Council members also will discuss year-end budget amendments for the city’s gas, electric, stores, sales tax, water and special highway funds — nearly all of which are tied to higher costs associated with energy and supplies.
Monday’s 6 p.m. meeting is at the New Community Building at Riverside Park and is open to the public.
