EDC summit recognizes rural businesses

EDC summit recognizes rural businesses Subhead PROGRESS VS. PRESERVATION Virginia S. Gilstrap, Reporter/ Managing Editor Tue, 05/14/2024 - 12:27 Image

• Hosts of last week’s Economic Development Summit include (L-R): Susan Sankey, executive director of the Gonzales EDC; Genora Young, executive Director of Yoakum EDC; Chelsea Steffek, administrator for Hallettsville EDC; and, Maggie Cromeens executive director of Cuero Development Corporation. GVEC’s Daisy Freeman, right, served as panel moderator. (contributed photo)
• A panel of local EDC directors answer questions from local business owners about growth in rural communities at the South Central Texas Economic summit last week. (contributed photo)

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Area business owners and community leaders gathered at the second Economic Development Summit, hosted by the South Central Texas Economic Network on May 6, to learn techniques for thriving in the current market.

Maggie Cromeens, executive director of the Cuero Development Corporation, said this year’s gathering, held at the Ag Friar Center, was tailored for area businesses.

“The first session featured a panel of EDC directors from Cuero, Gonzales, Hallettsville, and Yoakum, which comprise the four member organizations of the South Central Texas Economic Network,” Cromeen said. The panel also included a representative from GVEC, one of the event sponsors.

One of the questions posed was the challenge of balancing economic growth with the preservation of a town’s heritage.

“Collaboration between local government, businesses, residents, and historical societies is key to ensuring that growth respects and celebrates the community's unique identity,” Cromeen said.

“Unlike rapid, unchecked growth, conscious growth focuses on thoughtful, longterm planning that considers the needs and values of the community. In small towns, this approach is especially important because each development decision can have a significant impact on the town's character and resources,” Cromeen said.

She highlighted strategies such as zoning regulations that safeguard historic structures while encouraging growth and facade improvement programs to help maintain historic charm. Things like walking trails that feature historic landmarks and offering incentives for businesses that honor the town’s heritage will foster growth that preserves a town’s charm.

Other sessions had speakers focusing on issues such as recruiting, AI for small business and Gen Z retention. As many as 115 attended throughout the day, Cromeen said. Event sponsors included LCRA, GVEV, GBRA, NestFresh, and Placer.ai. For more information on the South Central Texas Economic Network visit the website at sctxeconomicnetwork. com.