This letter originally appeared in the KCED Fall 2024 Newsletter
I am excited to have been given this opportunity to serve Kandiyohi County as Executive Director of Kandiyohi County Economic Development (KCED). Since joining KCED as of August 1st, my wife, Terry, and I have moved into our home on Foot Lake in Willmar, attended several events throughout the county, and have both fallen in love with Kandiyohi County, its people and places. I have been very impressed with individuals’ commitment to volunteer engagement and service on our various KCED committees (Agriculture & Renewable Energy Development; Broadband and Advanced Technology; Business Retention & Expansion/Recruitment; Marketing & Public Relations; and Finance), and on our Joint Operations and Joint Powers Boards.
I have been busily engaged in meeting with individuals, entrepreneurs, aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners/managers, our regional and state partners, and our federal, state, county, city and township elected officials and administrators to get a better sense of how we (at KCED) can continue to provide service excellence in furtherance of our mission “To be a catalyst for economic growth of the greater Kandiyohi County area.”
In mid-September, I attended the International Economic Development Conference (IEDC), and was pleased to learn that KCED is on the leading edge of economic development and is engaging and furthering “Best Practices” in all areas of its operations with ongoing mission fulfillment. The majority of economic growth throughout the USA is coming from a focus on helping new business and social entrepreneurs, and in expanding, retaining, and helping local businesses to grow. I was also pleased to discover that IEDC is placing great emphasis on rural development, and its next conference (in June 2025) will be on “Rural Focus.”
When I joined KCED, I made it clear that my focus would include KCED services to all of Kandiyohi County, continuing the joint powers relationship with the City of Willmar while ensuring that each city and township is served to the fullest extent. If we can help you, your business, or your community grow, or if you are considering opening a new business, or expanding your existing business, please contact us. Thank you all for this wonderful opportunity to serve as your executive director, and to help lead continuing excellence in all service areas at KCED.
Patrick