HUMBOLDT — “Humboldt, you bring the fun to Allen County,” Camille Lavon told Humboldt Council members Monday night.
At least that’s the impression Lavon has gained since her three months as Thrive Allen County’s new economic development director.
Humboldt contributes $17,000 a year to the position, with Iola dedicating $50,000, Allen County, $30,000 and Iola Industries, $20,000.
Lavon described herself as a “boomerang” Kansan, who has returned to her native state after most recently living in Colorado as well as other states and countries.
“And so, thanks to the Kansas Department of Commerce, that means I get $15,000 in college reimbursement, I don’t pay state income taxes for five years and because I moved into a newly built home, I don’t pay property taxes for 10 years,” she said.
“So, if you have kids or grandchildren pondering whether to return home, let them know what the Commerce Department is doing to get talent back to Kansas,” she said.
The state agency launched the “Love, Kansas” campaign in July 2024 to lure former residents back. The goal was to bring home 1,000 people within the first year.
Lavon said Humboldt Administrator Cole Herder has introduced her to E-Community, the Allen County Entrepreneur Community, to discuss small business issues as well as Network Kansas.
“He’s been a great teacher,” Lavon said of Herder.
She’s also met with local industry leaders, “who’ve given me insights on what they’re experiencing.
“I’m not going to lie to you, this is going to be a slow burn,” Lavon said. “It’s going to take me some time to learn the landscape.”
She encouraged Council members to reach out to her on an individual basis with their questions. “It really is the best way to make sure the investment you have made in this position comes with the return you’re looking for.”
ROBERT BINGAMAN was appointed to the Humboldt Council. Bingaman fills Ward 1, position 1. Paul Cloutier, who is reportedly moving to England, attended his last meeting in September.
A native of Wichita, Bingaman has lived in Humboldt since 2021. He is an artist. Haw Contemporary, a gallery in Kansas City, Mo., currently features his work.
Bingaman said his friendships with Cloutier as well as Humboldt native Josh Works, drew him to Humboldt.
“It’s a good fit with this stage of my life,” he said.
