Posted 1/18/2012 by EDGE

Headlines in this Issue

• AGI Chooses Falls City for Expansion 
• Local Entrepreneurs Purchase Wolfe's Printing
• EDGE Celebrates a Year of Progress and Success
• Top 10 Milestones of 2011
• Building Upon Success ... 2012 Strategic Plan
• Neighborhood Stabilization Program Sparks Redevelopment
• Southeast Nebraska Career Fair - March 13, 2012
• Community Colleges Launch Renewable Energy Courses
• EDGE Hosts Open House for Investors
• A Message from the President 

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Posted 1/17/2012 by EDGE

Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise Executive Director Beckie Cromer presented the organization’s fourth quarter report to the Falls City, City Council Monday evening.

Cromer said their largest project in the last quarter of 2011 was the acquisition of the Products Unlimited building in the Falls City Industrial Park. The purchase of that building allowed for the expansion of Ag Growth International, which purchased Airlanco in the last year. Cromer said a lot of work has been done to prepare the building for the expansion. 

Additionally, Cromer said a tenant that was renting the Products Unlimited building had to be relocated. They are now leasing a portion of the Armory building west of Falls City for the next few months.

Another local project EDGE has been heavily involved with that has seen rapid progress is the Wilderness Falls senior housing development south of Community Medical Center. Cromer told the council that Excel Corporation has made great strides on that project, thanks in no small part to favorable weather conditions this fall and winter. 

Other activity for EDGE in the last three months of 2011 Cromer said included working to strengthen ties to the Omaha area; visiting the headquarters of Ag Growth International; and working on the transfer of 23 acres of land owned by Community Medical Center to the Industrial Development Corporation.

Cromer said they expect to receive a Falls City Labor Study report in the first part of 2012.



Source:  Sunny 101.3, Aired January 17, 2010

Posted 1/10/2012 by EDGE

Individuals who made a commitment to the Falls City area with the construction and opening of the Vision Inn, the new motel in north Falls City, were saluted last Wednesday during the annual Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise (EDGE) banquet and meeting at the Elks Club.

Earning the Investor(s) of the Year award were Jerry and Nancy McKim, Leon and Madaline Wilhelm, Allan and Mary Ann Clark, Gary and Linda Jones, Phil Bletscher, Dr. Dave and Joyce Borg, Rich and Susan Witt, Brian and Sally Palmer, Marna Stehlik and Jim and Shirley Jones.

The investors were introduced and the award presented by Kevin Malone, who noted their “very large investment in the future of Falls City and the surrounding area. They took on a project that had been discussed as a need and economic development goal in Falls City for a great number of years and had the fortitude and willingness to take it on.”

The Vision Inn project was the first in Falls City to utilize Tax Increment Financing, which, said Malone, “shines as a great example of how this economic development tool can be a win-win for both the developer and the community.”

The two previous winners of the award were Community Medical Center and Southeast Nebraska Communications.

EDGE Executive Director Beckie Cromer welcomed those in attendance and introduced the head table, which included President Bart Keller, who will serve in that capacity again this year, Malone, Vice President of Investor and Community Relations, Beth and Randy Sickel (Beth is the Past President of EDGE), Rod Vandeberg, District 1 Nebraska Highway Commissioner, and Nick Cromer, Beckie’s husband.

Vandeberg offered the opening prayer and also extended “some well-deserved thank yous” to those who provide EDGE leadership, including Mrs. Cromer, “who works so hard and represents us so well and who has gained so much respect in the field of economic development.” Vandeberg also acknowledged Keller and fellow Executive Committee members Steve Kottich, Malone, Dana Rathje and Beth Sickel, as well as Administrative Assistant Carla Rhodd, EDGE board members, the mayor and city council and Lynn Franzen and Phil Michel of the Department of Economic Development and Kevin Burnison of SENDD, who attended the banquet.

“Ladies and gentlemen, EDGE is clearly one of this community’s ‘crown jewels,’” Vandeberg said, “and while there are times when it might appear that things are not happening, let me assure that things are constantly happening ... many times behind the scenes ... and that no stone is left unturned in its efforts to improve the economy of this great community.”

Mrs. Rhodd created a 15-minute video that highlighted EDGE’s top 10 accomplishments for 2011. The list included the expanding role of Ag Growth International as a part of Falls City’s industrial and business community, Herzog’s multi-million dollar track expansion at its railcar repair facility in Falls City, utilization of the 2010 housing study and the start of the Wilderness Falls senior housing project, retention of all existing manufacturers and the expanding workforce, working with the city to expand incentive programs, assistance to small business development, progress in developing “shovel-ready” industrial sites, aggressive promotion of Falls City and Richardson County, and maintaining/expanding support for EDGE through efforts to inform, engage and demonstrate accountability to investors and community stakeholders.  (Click here to download the EDGE 2011 Annual Report.)

Bart Keller conducted the business meeting, during which Jerry Oliver was selected to serve another three-year term as a general EDGE director. Keller thanked Ray Joy of Southeast Nebraska Communications for joining the EDGE board. In his annual message, Keller referred to the “energy, enthusiasm, and ‘can-do’ spirit” of the EDGE team, which has resulted in “significant economic development progress over the past five years.”

The banquet was catered by Wooden Spoon.



Source:  Falls City Journal, January 10, 2012

Posted 11/29/2011 by EDGE

Posted 11/29/2011 by EDGE

The Falls City Council, meeting in regular session Monday evening, November 21, unanimously approved a memorandum of understanding that promises to bring new jobs to Falls City in an Industrial Park facility that has been largely unused for years.

Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise (EDGE) Executive Director Beckie Cromer announced that AirLanco, now owned by a progressive and growing Ag Growth International, has chosen Falls City as the site for expansion. Their immediate plans call for the purchase of the Products Unlimited building, which will become a research and development center for the company for new product lines.

Mrs. Cromer said the expansion is “something to celebrate” and a “very exciting project.” The new AirLanco owners, who she said are “in growth mode,” could have chosen other locations but decided that Falls City was the best option. Councilman Jerry Oliver, who is retired from a management position at AirLanco, said the expansion is “ideal” for Falls City. Ag Growth International, he said, is a “very impressive” company.

Ag Growth will borrow the purchase price of $215,000 from the city for the 17,700 square foot Products Unlimited building. The loan will be payment and interest free for the first 18 months, described in the memorandum as a “ramp up period.” Within that time, the company hopes to create at least 15 new, full-time positions. Wages will be in the $11 to $16.50 per hour range, with full company benefits. If the company reaches and maintains its employment target, the loan would be forgiven. Any payments that might be required would be to the City of Falls City. EDGE, key in the negotiations with Ag Growth, will administer the loan and monitor the employee numbers.

The existing AirLanco facility will receive a new, higher capacity transformer. The transformer currently at AirLanco will be moved to the Products Unlimited site.

Ag Growth will have right of first refusal on the 4.42-acre parcel adjacent to the new site. Possession of the Products Unlimited building will take place on December 31. Mrs. Cromer noted that with the purchase, the building will be back on the tax rolls. She said Ag Growth has “signed off” on the memorandum. Formal documents will be prepared and executed.

Council members Oliver, Brad Campbell, Mike Moore, Ryan Rieschick, Kirby Robidoux, Steve Scholl, Hal Sutter and Jim Wisdom all voted to approve the memorandum.



Source:  Falls City Journal, November 29, 2011

Posted 11/7/2011 by EDGE

On Monday, November 28, Falls City High School will host a Blue Ribbon School Award ceremony at 10:15 a.m. in the high school gymnasium.  Featured speakers will include Governor Dave Heineman and First Lady Sally Ganem, Senator Lavon Heidemann and Nebraska Commissioner of Education Dr. Roger Breed. The community is invited to attend the celebration.


 

Posted 11/1/2011 by EDGE

The community of Falls City is featured in the November/December 2011 issue of Nebraska Life Magazine.

In “Falling for Falls City,” Nebraska Life Magazine writer Adrielle Harvey and publisher and editor Christopher Amundson explore this progressive community in Southeast Nebraska, including its connection to Saturday Evening Post illustrator John Falter.

One of those who fell for Falls City’s forward-thinking vision is Mitch Glaeser, a real estate developer from Florida, who fell in love with its people and the town, and rescued its beloved Grand Weaver Hotel, founded by former Governor Arthur J. Weaver.

“Mitch realized in this modern world we live in that a lot of people from the big city appreciate coming to a place like Falls City and getting away from the hustle and bustle of their lives,” said Diana Orton, who manages the hotel.

Read about Falls City’s residents, artistry, businesses, history and downtown revitalization project, with full-color photography, in the current issue of Nebraska Life.

Nebraska Life Magazine publishes six issues a year and began 14 years ago. It is family owned by Christopher Amundson and his wife, Angela. A subscription to the magazine is $21 for one year or $38 for two years. To subscribe, please call the Nebraska Life office in downtown Norfolk at 1.800.777.6159, visit the website www.NebraskaLife.com or send your order to 206 Norfolk Ave., Norfolk, NE 68702-0819.



Source:  Falls City Journal, November 1, 2011

Posted 10/10/2011 by EDGE

Headlines in this Issue

• Congressman Smith Visits Falls City
• Economic Impact of Wilderness Falls Housing Development Ripples through Economy
• Upcoming EDGE Events
• Pamida Celebrates Re-Grand Opening
• EDGE Updating Labor Basin Study
• Nebraska Life to Feature Falls City
• On the Road Selling Falls City Area Location Opportunities 
• EDGE Participates in Governor’s Reverse Trade Mission
• Falls City Native Opens New Chiropractic Office 
• EDGE Promotes Area Career Opportunities
• Southeast Partners Regional Group Working on Plan to Capitalize on Niobium Mine
• Nebraska Tops 2011 State Rankings 
• Ball Field Improvement Plan Moves Forward
• Message from the Director

Posted 10/4/2011 by EDGE

Airlanco, Inc. has been acquired by Ag Growth International (AGI) based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.  AGI is a leading manufacturer of portable and stationary grain handling, storage and conditioning equipment, including augers, belt conveyors, storage bins, handling accessories and aeration equipment.

AGI has manufacturing facilities in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and Finland.  The acquisition of Airlanco and its products will complement AGI’s catalog of equipment and strengthen their market share.  Paul Franzmann, Vice President of USA operations, notes, “Airlanco’s customer’s represent some of the most recognized brands in agriculture and their product catalog will add value to our current product line allowing us to strengthen relationships with our customers and grow the company.”

In addition to announcing the sale of Airlanco, Ron and Julie Krebs also announced the promotion of Doug Watkins to General Manager and noted all Airlanco employees will be retained and enjoy a seamless transition to AGI.

Following is AGI's press release on the acquisition:

Ag Growth Strengthens Product Catalogue with Acquisition of Airlanco

Winnipeg, MB, October 4, 2011 – Ag Growth International Inc. (TSX: AFN) (“Ag Growth” or the “Company”) today announced the acquisition of substantially all of the operating assets of Airlanco, a manufacturer of aeration products and filtration systems that are sold primarily into the commercial grain handling and processing sectors. The purchase price of USD $11.0 million plus closing costs and a working capital adjustment will be financed from Ag Growth’s acquisition line of credit and represents a valuation of approximately five times Airlanco’s normalized fiscal 2010 EBITDA.

Airlanco is located in Falls City, Nebraska, and has traditionally served customers headquartered or located in North America. The Company had sales of approximately $11 million in 2010, operating out of an 80,000 square foot facility with 65 employees.

“We are very excited to add a respected company like Airlanco to our family”, said Gary Anderson, Chief Executive Officer, “Airlanco is a key player in the aeration fan market in the United States and is recognized as a reputable solution provider for the high capacity fan market. In addition, Airlanco provides dust collection and filtration systems across a broad range of customers, with a strong focus in commercial grain handling and several processing sectors. The Airlanco brand is known for its premium quality and commitment to customer satisfaction. Airlanco will add key product categories to the AGI catalog, strengthening our 'one-stop shop' concept and in turn allowing us to better serve new and existing customers in the global marketplace.”

Posted 8/30/2011 by EDGE

Nebraska Congressman Adrian Smith who now represents Nebraska's 3rd District, which includes Richardson County/Falls City, visited Falls City last week. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, Smith is in the front lines in the debate on how to create jobs, open new markets for American products, promote economic growth and directly impact our nation's tax policy.  EDGE hosted a reception for the Congressman during his visit to Falls City, providing an opportunity to hear from Smith on a number of important issues facing the nation.  (EDGE President Bart Keller is pictured with the Congressman.)

Posted 8/16/2011 by EDGE

Nebraska has been named one of America’s ten most business-friendly states for 2011 by Pollina Corporate Real Estate, Inc., a national leader in corporate site selection based in Chicago. The ranking is based on independent research conducted by Pollina.

Nebraska ranked fifth, only behind Virginia, Utah, North Dakota and Wyoming. It also moved up a spot from its 2010 sixth-place ranking. States rounding out the top ten were Kansas, South Dakota, Missouri, South Carolina and Indiana.

“You can’t hold Nebraska back! Nebraska has once again climbed on the list of pro-business states, moving from #6 to #5,” said Dr. Ronald R. Pollina. “In 2008, Nebraska held the #15 position and has climbed ten positions in just three years. Governor Dave Heineman’s inspired political leadership coupled with economic development powerhouses give state residents much to be proud of.”

“Nebraska again serves as a beacon for all states to replicate when it comes to retaining and growing jobs and businesses in the nation,” said Richard J. Baier, Director, Nebraska Department of Economic Development. “We have continued to improve our business-friendly atmosphere, and Pollina, among other national experts, acknowledges our state’s economic development growth.”

The report states that Nebraska had an excellent Stage I-Labor, Taxes and Other Factors rank of 6th. In addition, Nebraska has low unemployment and low state budget deficit, as well as Right-to-Work status. In terms of Stage II-Incentives and Economic Development Agency Factors, Nebraska continued its strong showing by placing 10th, reflecting its emphasis on providing tools necessary for businesses to grow.

“Many companies need to stop thinking about Nebraska as just an agricultural state. With less than three percent of its labor force employed in agriculture, Governor Heineman is clearly focused on building diverse job opportunities for his state’s citizens,” said Dr. Pollina.

Considered one of the most, if not the most comprehensive study of its type, the Pollina Corporate Top 10 Pro-Business States annual study analyzes and identifies the most effective state governments at creating pro-business environments. The study examines 32 factors controlled by state government, including taxation, human resources, infrastructure, economic incentive programs and state economic development efforts.

Since 2004, the study has been covered by The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, CBS, NBC, CNN and NPR, as well as TV and radio stations, and newspapers across the nation. Several reports consider the Pollina Corporate Top 10 Pro-Business States study to be the “Gold Standard” by which all states should be judged.

Posted 8/11/2011 by EDGE

Invest Nebraska has begun accepting submissions for the 2011 Southeast Nebraska Venture Competition, which targets local entrepreneurs and business owners.

On October 14 at Peru State College, a judges’ panel consisting of regional business leaders and community members will determine which person or team has the best business plan to implement within the 13 county area of eligibility. Counties include: Cass, Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Johnson, Nemaha, Otoe, Pawnee, Richardson, Saline, Seward, Thayer, and York.

The winner will receive a $25,000 cash award in exchange for a minority stake in the business, as well as mentoring/professional services from Invest Nebraska in areas such as accounting, legal, operations and marketing.

“We’re hopeful for a variety of high-growth ideas from the region”, said Dan Hoffman, President of Invest Nebraska. “The success of other regional competition winners has been amazing to watch since we began holding competitions in 2009. I’d like to see that trend continue here in the southeast area.”

Detailed information about the event, as well as application forms and competition rules can be found online at: www.investnebraska.com. The deadline for entering this competition is September 30, 2011.

The Southeast Nebraska Venture Competition is an initiative designed to promote and support the creation and expansion of businesses in southeast Nebraska, and to attract new business to the area. Entrepreneurs with start-up ideas and owners with existing businesses are welcome to submit business plans.

Invest Nebraska is a non-profit, 501(c)(3), venture development organization that advises and invests in companies and early stage business ideas in Nebraska. The organization provides networking opportunities for investors, entrepreneurs and service providers from all corners of the state. Sponsors of the competition include the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, USDA Rural Development, and Peru State College.

For more information, please visit www.investnebraska.com, or contact Susan Harris-Broomfield at 308.340.0856 or susan@investnebraska.com.

Posted 8/2/2011 by EDGE

NE ranked 10th for Economic Growth Potential in Business Facilities' 2011 State Rankings Report.  For the Economic Growth Potential category, Business Facilities began its deliberations by taking a close look at the hard facts of job-creation and project development in specific industry sectors in a location, along with supporting elements like incentives programs and the availability of a skilled workforce. "Then we factored in the location’s growth strategy, giving extra credit for the diversity of its initiatives and cooperation between business, government and higher education," Business Facilities Editor-in-Chief Jack Rogers said. "This was coupled this with an assessment of the growth potential of the location’s targeted industries, paying special attention to vertical integration and/or the creation of indirect as well as direct employment. Our final evaluation of Economic Growth Potential leaders certifies that we are convinced a location has a credible strategy for growth, has created the tools/programs needed to implement that strategy and has a proven track record of success with upward momentum," he added.

Go to Business Facilities website to learn more about the state rankings »

Posted 7/28/2011 by EDGE

Breaking ground at the future site of Wilderness Falls is from left to right: Community Medical Center CEO Ryan Larsen, State Sen. Lavon Heidemann, Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy, Falls City Mayor Tim Hersh, EXCEL Director of Development Paula Rhian, Horzion Bank President Pat Latimer, EDGE Executive Director Beckie Cromer, former mayor Rod Vandeberg, Lydia Wiles with the Nebraska Dept. of Economic Development and Tammy Ward for Sen. Ben Nelson. Photo by Matt Barker.

Posted 7/18/2011 by EDGE

In the US Chamber of Commerce’s second "Enterprising States" study – Nebraska keeps its position at number nine in economic performance this year.  The state places in the top 25 in six of seven performance metrics, and is seventh in short term job growth.  The report finds Nebraska has continued to show signs of relative economic strength as other states have struggled through the recession.

Click here for the study - go to page 80 for Nebraska findings »

Posted 7/5/2011 by EDGE

Headlines in this Issue

• Wilderness Falls Groundbreaking Scheduled for July 22
• Local Leaders Developing Plan to Make Richardson County the Healthiest
• EDGE Hosts Falls City Public High School Alumni 
• New Restaurant Opens on Main Street  
• $350,000 Awarded for Phase II Downtown Revitalization Project 
• Peru State Hosts Southeast Nebraska Career Fair 
• EDGE Marketing Activities Update
• NIFA Announces New Business Incentives
• Business Appreciation Week
• Governor Heineman Signs Talent & Innovation Initiative Bills into Law
• Richardson County Total Property Value Increases
• Nuclear Power Industry Training Programs Offered at Southeast Nebraska Career Institute
• EDGE Welcomes New Member Investors 
• Message from the Director  

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Posted 6/30/2011 by EDGE

Nebraska ranked in the top 10 states in which to do business, according to CNBC's fifth annual "America's Top States for Business" study.  Overall, Nebraska ranked 10th in the study, which looked at ten categories of competitiveness, moving up from 13th place in 2010.  The state ranked 5th in the categories of business-friendliness and economy (economic health and growth) and 6th in cost of living. 

For more details, go to CNBC.com »

Posted 5/24/2011 by EDGE

Gov. Dave Heineman signed the final measures of a four-part legislative package into law on May 24. The Talent and Innovation Initiative was a 2011 legislative priority for the Governor and introduced by several State Senators on his behalf. The initiative is aimed at advancing business innovation and strengthening workforce recruitment efforts in Nebraska.

“The Talent and Innovation Initiative is about enhancing technology and innovation, and growing and attracting new, technology-focused companies to Nebraska,” Gov. Heineman said. “It puts a laser-like focus on growing Nebraska’s innovation economy. With this initiative, Nebraska has one of the strongest public policy strategies in place to advance business recruitment and development.”

Based on 2010 recommendations made in a comprehensive review of Nebraska’s economic climate, the Talent & Innovation Initiative was developed to better leverage existing funds and enhance momentum in developing industries positioned to benefit from technology and innovation. Programs contained in the bills will be implemented by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development.

LB 386, the Nebraska Internship Program, introduced by Sen. Lavon Heidemann of Elk Creek, takes effect June 1. It is a partnership with Nebraska businesses to create new internship opportunities for college and university students. Funded with $1.5 million a year in job training funds, and matched by eligible companies, the program will create opportunities for 500 to 750 juniors and seniors studying at four-year institutions or students in their second year at a Nebraska community college to gain job experience.

Awards will be made on a first-come, first-serve basis to companies creating new internship opportunities, which are capped at 10 per business. Internships will pay at least minimum wage and range from 12 week to year-long programs.

LB 387, the Business Innovation Act, introduced by Sen. Galen Hadley of Kearney, intended to help businesses develop new technologies to enhance quality job opportunities in the state. It will provide competitive grants for research at Nebraska institutions, new product development and testing, and help expand small business and entrepreneur outreach efforts.

It will expand grant opportunities within targeted industries to help businesses providing matching funds with prototype development, commercialization and applied research in the state and provide assistance for microenterprise projects. The law takes effect Oct. 1.

LB 388, the Site & Building Development Fund, introduced by Sen. John Wightman of Lexington, takes effect Oct. 1 and is intended to help increase industrial and commercial sites available and ready for business development. Communities will provide matching funds toward projects that can involve demolition, new construction and rehabilitation. State funding will be focused on land and infrastructure costs with 40 percent of funding available to non-metro areas.

LB 389, the Angel Investment Tax Credit, introduced by Sen. Abbie Cornett of Bellevue, is effective for the current tax year. It encourages investment in high-tech and other startup enterprises in Nebraska by providing refundable state income tax credits to qualified investors investing in qualified early-stage companies. Capped at $3 million annually, the program requires a minimum investment of $25,000 for individuals and $50,000 for investment funds. Eligible small businesses must have fewer than 25 employees, with the majority based in the state.

Additionally, the Governor signed LB 345, the Small Business Innovation Act sponsored by Sen. Danielle Conrad of Lincoln, which provides additional tools and technical assistance for entrepreneurs across Nebraska.

Gov. Heineman said, “I want to thank the many senators who supported these proposals, the business community and other private sector leaders. This is about making investments that will develop new career opportunities in innovative and technologically-advanced sectors.”

For photos of the event click here »


Source:  Nebraska Department of Economic Development

Posted 5/16/2011 by EDGE

Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise (EDGE) is excited about the upcoming Falls City Public School High School Reunion as it offers an opportunity to remind current and former residents of the excellent education system and the great quality of living we have here in Falls City.

On Saturday, June 25, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. EDGE, in cooperation with the Chamber/Main Street groups, will be hosting a hospitality event for alumni. Stop by the office located at 1705 Stone Street for free hors d’oeuvres and to learn more about recent economic development and community projects. We will also conduct hourly bus tours showcasing Falls City’s business and quality of living amenities, including the new senior housing development, aquatic park, library and arts center, our newest lodging accommodations, Community Medical Center, the industrial park and much more!

Download the postcard invite »

Posted 4/28/2011 by EDGE

As part of the quarterly update from Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise, EDGE Executive Director Beckie Cromer gave a positive outlook for Falls City industrial businesses, noting employers are adding new employees and making new investments.

"Manufacturing remained very strong with Herzog indicating they have an immediate need for six to eight welders," said Cromer. "Watkins Aircraft Support Products (WASP) will begin a second shift in the second quarter of 2011. They added nine employees in the first quarter and have plans to add thirteen more this month bringing the total employment to sixty. Ames True Temper was awarded a new contract that resulted in the addition of six new employees and contingent on the result of two pending contracts will be adding more employees in the future. Vantec also looks to hire three to four employees in the second quarter and Airlanco is continuing to invest in Falls City, installing a new robotic welder."

To assist with employers with their growth and expansion plans, Cromer reported EDGE is available to assist employers with their workforce training needs. She reported EDGE assisted WASP with obtaining a $6,000 Nebraska Worker Training grant that provided funding for performance and efficiency training for 40 employees.

She also reported that Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) pool of reuse funds has been broadened to include the Downtown/Redevelopment District. According to Cromer, the incentives are now available to more possible applicants, including all local industrial, commercial, retail and service businesses. She noted that previously it was difficult for the downtown area to meet CDBG national objectives to utilize the funds, but with EDGE’s work on the blight and substandard designation the funds can be used in a broader area.

For more information on business development opportunities in Falls City/Richardson County and/or becoming a member-investor of EDGE, please contact the EDGE office at 402.245.2105.

Posted 4/28/2011 by EDGE

In recognition and celebration of federal Community Development Week, Falls City was among the Nebraska communities that were recognized for outstanding efforts by the State of Nebraska.

In recent years, Falls City has accomplished a long list of projects, including a $3 million library and arts center, a $3.2 million aquatic park, a state-of-the-art high school track and field complex, renovations and additions to the public school, renovation of the Prichard Auditorium and a $21 million hospital that opened in November 2009.

Economic development accomplishments include the $4.4 million expansion of Vantec, Inc., a custom plastic manufacturing facility that created new jobs; a $32 million bridge spanning the Missouri River at Rulo, NE, led by a group of Falls City leaders who formed the Tri-State Corridor Alliance (Nebraska, Missouri and Kansas) to realize the project; the purchase of 10.1 acres to advance industrial site development goals; a $1 million “Business Parkway” industrial road connecting the Falls City Industrial Park with Highway 159 and, ultimately, Interstate 29; a $5 million wastewater treatment plant; designation as a Heritage Nebraska Main Street Community; and many projects undertaken by Falls City EDGE.

"Many Nebraska communities count on the strong support offered through the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program to accomplish critical need community and economic development projects in the State, in areas including infrastructure, public facilities, housing, business start-ups and expansions and tourism business development," said EDGE Executive Director Beckie Cromer. "We are one of those communities that have utilized the funding to make Falls City a quality place to do business, work and raise a family." 

To learn more about Falls City location opportunities visit the EDGE website »

Posted 4/1/2011 by EDGE

Headlines in this Issue

• Construction Will Begin on Wilderness Falls Housing Development
• EDGE Recruits Staffing Services, Inc.
• Rulo Bridge Going Up
• City Takes Action to Enhance Incentives
• WASP Receives $6,000 Worker Training Grant
• $165 Million Wind Farm Dedicated
• Entrepreneurs Return Home and Purchase Business
• New Medical Services Business Opens in Falls City
• Herzog Falls City Expansion Celebrated
• Legislation Aimed at Enhancing Talent and Innovation
• Upcoming Alumni Events

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Posted 3/15/2011 by EDGE

Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise (EDGE), is pleased to announce Excel Development Group will begin construction of the $3 million dollar Wilderness Falls senior housing development in June 2011. The new development will be situated south of Community Medical Center on 31st and Barada Streets. The project includes eight duplexes—fourteen will be two-bedroom units and two will be three-bedroom units. Additional project activities involve the construction of five or more market rate homes, as well as infrastructure development including electric, water, storm sewer, sanitary sewer and paving of new streets. Construction is expected to take 12 months.

The Wilderness Falls housing development will be all one level and include zero entry design, patio and attached single-car garage. Exterior features will include partial brick, shutters, landscaping and lawn sprinklers with amenities such as a washer and dryer, dishwasher, refrigerator and microwave in each unit. Seniors will also enjoy a maintenance-free living environment.

“Every community needs choices when it comes to senior living facilities,” notes EDGE Executive Director Beckie Cromer, “Excel Development Group will provide Falls City with experienced, innovative development and management services which will be an added benefit for seniors looking to retire here. We’re hoping this development retains and attracts seniors to the Falls City/Richardson County area.”

This project is the result of 18 months worth of time and effort in a very complex process which include many community partners and addresses a direct need as outlined in the recently completed Falls City Housing Study. “Working with Falls City EDGE really made this project possible,” said Paula Rhian, Development Director for Excel Development Corporation. “Beckie and her staff helped us find additional funding sources and local partners that were key in getting both a Federal Home Loan Bank grant and tax credit funding. In this first round of funding from the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority only five projects were selected. I am as proud as Falls City High School alum to say that Wilderness Falls is one of them.” Those directly involved with making this project a reality include employees, members and committees of EDGE, the City of Falls City, Richardson County and Community Medical Center, as well as local realtors and Sacred Heart Helping Hands.

“The Wilderness Falls project includes capital investment, infrastructure improvement, increased tax base, job creation and quality of life improvements—all key components of economic development success,” said Cromer.

Upon successful completion of the Phase I Wilderness Falls project EDGE will begin discussions on a potential Phase II senior housing development. In addition, EDGE is currently working with the engineering firm of Olsson and Associates on the master planning of the remaining 27 acres south of Community Medical Center which will focus on development of single-family residential homes.

For more information and/or to obtain a pre-application for Wilderness Falls, please contact Beckie Cromer.

Posted 2/28/2011 by EDGE

Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise (EDGE) is pleased to announce Staffing Services Inc., a Lincoln-based firm, will be opening an office in Falls City on March 15.  Staffing Services has placement expertise in a variety of career fields, including industrial, technical trade and office/clerical areas of employment. They offer several options to meet employers’ staffing needs from a Direct Placement program to a Temp-to-hire option to a Day-to-Day program. The firm provides pre-screening and can customize the evaluation process to meet employers’ specific needs.

EDGE Executive Director Beckie Cromer noted, “In response to our employers’ continued demand for local employment services, EDGE has recruited a professional employment services firm to Falls City to meet the growing labor demand in our area. We have been very impressed with owners Steve Dworsky and Steve Rothwell and we know Staffing Services will provide professional, reliable services to the Falls City community.”

The office will be located in Falls City at 1210 Stone Street and initially open on Tuesdays and Thursdays beginning March 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with additional office hours planned as business develops and a client base is established. According to placement specialist Sherry Rogman, “Searching for good employees can be a time consuming, costly and frustrating process. Staffing Services strives to close the gap between individuals who are serious about becoming gainfully employed and employers who are just as serious about finding and retaining employees who demonstrate a true ability and desire to perform tasks.”

EDGE welcomes Staffing Services to the Falls City business district and we’re pleased to have continued growth and development in our community. Owner Steve Dworsky notes, “We have enjoyed a very positive working relationship with Beckie Cromer as she has worked closely with our company to address our business needs. Falls City should be proud of the positive attitude of the community and proactive approach demonstrated by EDGE.” 

For more information on SSI, please visit their website at www.staffingservicesne.com » 

Click here to learn more about Falls City's workforce advantages » 

Posted 2/20/2011 by EDGE

"Ride the light."  Southeast Nebraska Communications uses that phrase in its advertising to encourage people to take advantage of its new fiber optic network.

Officially called Fiber-To-The-Home, or FTTH, the system uses hair-thin strands of glass, arranged in bundles or cables, instead of copper wires to carry massive amounts of digital information over long distances.  Signals are transmitted by light instead of electricity.

The result:  faster Internet, streaming video and movie downloads.

The communications company, owned by the Towle family since 1906, is almost finished with the project which began about two years ago. Workers buried 98 miles of cable in Falls City to connect 2,366 homes and businesses -- basically the entire town -- to the company's central office at 110 W. 17th St.

"The construction phase is 100 percent complete," said Ray Joy, the company's operations manager. Now workers are busy doing "cutovers" or hooking up each home and business to the network. That job is about 75 percent complete and should be finished in about two months.

Over the next two years, workers will move into the rural areas, burying cable to serve farms and the villages of Stella, Shubert, Salem, Rulo, Verdon and surrounding areas in the eastern two-thirds of Richardson County.  That means burying 518 miles of cable to serve 1,453 homes and businesses.

"It's been a whirlwind year," said Beth Sickel, Southeast Nebraska Communications' vice president and general manager.

At first people didn't know what to expect, she said, so the company had to raise awareness and inform residents of what a fiber optic system can do for them and the community.  Falls City, population of 3,933, also has wireless service but on a spotty basis.

Here's how fiber optic makes a difference:  Remember the 54K dial up modem? Using that system, it would take you more than two and a half days to download a high-definition movie.  A copper wire system using electricity would take about one hour. With a fiber optic network, that same movie can be downloaded in 32 minutes or faster with an upgraded service.

Don Ferguson, owner of Ram Exterminators Inc., got hooked up to the fiber optic network last Wednesday.

"I'm all ready for the upgrade.  I think this is a great thing that is happening," Ferguson said.  "We're blessed down here to have our little phone company."

"Falls City is the largest community in the state of Nebraska that is 100 percent fiber optic, which is kind of impressive when you think about it," Sickel said.

An $11 million loan from the USDA Rural Utilities Service helped the company build the fiber optic network. The company also received an $11.3 million grant and loan through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to expand the system into rural areas.

Karissa Watson, owner of a home-based web and graphic design business called Kissa's Kreations, got hooked up to the network last summer.

"Oh, I love it! It's had a pretty good impact for me -- not having to wait," she said.  "It makes it seamless."

Watson said her husband, Stephen, likes the new system even better because he plays World of Warcraft online and can download in minutes, whereas the same downloads take hours for his friends -- who are naturally jealous.

Customers' bills did not increase because of the fiber optic network project, Sickel said. Internet customers pay about $32 a month for six megabytes per second -- the standard service.  Other packages including higher speeds are available.

Southeast Nebraska Communications is working with Falls City EDGE (Economic Development and Growth Enterprise) to help attract more home-based businesses and telecommuters -- people who can work from their homes -- to the community.

Recently, the economic development agency sent out about 3,000 mailings to graduates of Falls City High School and Sacred Heart High School to tell them about the new FTTH technology and encourage them to move back home.  (Download a copy of the Falls City EDGE FTTH direct mail brochure )

Falls City EDGE director Beckie Cromer said so far two people have done so; one person works for a company in Lincoln and another serves as a booking agent for a Los Angeles-based company that works with such stars as Larry the Cable Guy.

"I think what it (the fiber optic network) has done for our community is it has given us something else to say to people -- this is another thing that is great about Falls City," Sickel said.

Falls City's fiber optic network has sparked interest from other communities which have contacted the company and the Nebraska Department of Economic Development for information, she said.

But most of all, Sickel said, the people of Falls City feel energized and proud.

"They are very pleased that a local company is willing to invest these types of dollars in the community, which is huge," she said.



Source:  Lincoln Journal Star, February 20, 2011


For information on doing business, working or living in the Falls City area, contact Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise, Inc. (EDGE) at  402.245.2105 or email.   

For information on the FTTH Network, contact Southeast Nebraska Communications at 402.245.4451 or email.   

Posted 2/18/2011 by EDGE

The Flat Water Wind Farm, Nebraska's newest wind energy complex, is about as close to the state's southern border as you can get, so close that someone quipped Thursday:  If a wind turbine tumbled over, it would fall into Kansas.

Not quite. But the wind farm is about a mile from the Nebraska-Kansas border in hilly farm country in Richardson County.

Locals say the area has some of the strongest winds in Nebraska and that's one of the key reasons why Gestamp Wind North America, based in Houston, Texas, built the $165 million project at this location.

Javier Mateache, CEO of Gestamp Wind, told state, local government and utility officials gathered for a dedication ceremony at the wind farm Thursday afternoon that the company is proud to be in Nebraska and in Richardson County.

"We feel we are part of the community," Mateache said. "We are committed to help you with your commitments."

Although Gestamp Wind owns the wind farm, it is selling all of the electricity generated by the 40 wind turbines to the Omaha Public Power District under a 20-year power purchase agreement. Each turbine is rated at 1.5 megawatts.

OPPD estimates the 60 megawatts of electricity can power about 18,000 homes. On Thursday, with winds blowing 10 to 15 mph, the complex was producing 52 megawatts of power.

"We are proud to officially dedicate the first (utility-scale) wind farm in our service territory," said OPPD president and CEO Gary Gates. "It serves as a significant step in reaching our self-imposed goal of generating 10 percent of our electricity from renewable resources."

OPPD, which serves 13 counties in eastern and Southeast Nebraska, erected its first wind turbine about 10 years ago as an experiment in partnership with Valmont Industries near Valley. That 0.67-megawatt wind turbine is still generating electricity today. Since then, OPPD has signed long-term agreements to buy power from two other wind farms near Ainsworth and Bloomfield.

John Green, chairman of the OPPD board of directors, said the utility should meet its 10 percent goal in the next few years. The Omaha-based utility is interested in buying electricity from a wind farm proposed near Petersburg in north-central Nebraska.

In an interview, Mateache said negotiations are under way between Gestamp Wind and OPPD to add 10 megawatts to the Flat Water Wind Farm. He said much of the infrastructure is already built.

"I'm 100 percent sure we will reach an agreement in the next few months," Mateache said.

Gestamp Wind has leased between 10,000 and 15,000 acres for the wind farm from local landowners. Most of the land is used for roads, buffer areas, conservation protection and infrastructure.

"I think they are going to be a money-making deal," said Dan Feldkamp, one of a handful of landowners who attended the ceremony. He has two wind turbines on his property. "We got awful wind around here."

Les Baumgartner said he had no reservations about Gestamp Wind placing 11 wind turbines on his land. Each tower is 300 feet tall, not counting the blades.

"I live a mile from the towers so I can't hear them," Baumgartner said. But he admitted that he's getting a little tired of looking at them. "It looks different."

Both Feldkamp and Baumgartner said building the wind turbines made economic sense for them. It will help pay their property taxes and provide an income. However, neither would say how much.

"I don't know," Baumgartner said, adding that he has not received any compensation yet. The wind turbines began commercial operation Dec. 15.

Lt. Gov. Rick Sheehy told the crowd the Flat Water Wind Farm represents an important step in expanding Nebraska's wind energy capacity. He said the state has doubled its wind energy production in the last couple of years and will soon triple it.

"The Flat Water Wind Farm helps to strengthen Richardson County and surrounding communities by creating new jobs and new investments," Sheehy said.

Citing numbers provided by state Sen. Lavon Heidemann, who represents the area but could not attend the ceremony, Sheehy said the wind farm has already been an economic boon to the area, by providing about 150 jobs during construction.

Local officials estimate that about $100,000 per week was spent during a five-month construction period on such things as salaries, lodging, fuel and groceries.



Source:  Lincoln Journal Star, February 18, 2011


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