Regional economic development was a focus for the Flint Hills Regional Council (FHRC) during their June 16th meeting in Alma.

Jim Sands, City Commissioner, reported that the sharing of ideas and prospects has been occurring. Local leaders are following advice from the Leader’s Retreat this past Winter.

“[They talked] about how we all needed to get along; and they’re still working together, doing things to help other communities,” said Sands. “They’re still trying to hang tight with their own communities, but when they don’t have a particular business possibility they [now] refer that to another community rather than saying we don’t have it in this area.”

Sands noted that jobs are also increased by working together.

“[We] have to talk [to each other] to bring business to Kansas – not just one area – bring it to Kansas and then it’s up to them working together to try and bring that to whichever other area.”

The FHRC meeting was attended by community leaders from Geary, Riley, Morris, Pottawatomie, Chase, Lyon and Wabaunsee counties.