Falls City EDGE Welcomes Josie Friedly as Program Coordinator

FALLS CITY, NEB. – Falls City Economic Development & Growth Enterprise (EDGE) is pleased to announce the hiring of Josie Friedly as its new Program Coordinator, effective September 1, 2026.

A Falls City native, Friedly brings experience in economic development, business operations, community leadership, and local government. She previously served as Director of Community Advancement for the Pawnee City Development Corporation and has been actively involved in numerous community organizations and initiatives throughout Southeast Nebraska.

“Josie combines professional economic development experience with a personal investment in the future of Falls City. That unique perspective will help EDGE advance ambitious projects that will shape our future,” said EDGE Executive Director Lucas Froeschl.

Friedly is the oldest daughter of Ben and Krystal Howard and a 2017 graduate of Falls City Public Schools. She earned her bachelor's degree from Peru State College and resides in DuBois with her husband, Cody, and their two daughters. The family has operated a small business for the past eight years.

As Program Coordinator, Friedly will assist with the daily operations of EDGE, member communications, grant research and administration, community development initiatives, property management activities, and stakeholder engagement. She will also support housing, childcare, workforce development, business retention and expansion efforts, and other projects that enhance economic opportunity throughout the community.

“I am honored to join Falls City EDGE and have the opportunity to give back to the community that helped raise me,” said Friedly. “Economic development plays an important role in strengthening communities, especially through investments in childcare, support for small businesses, and creating places where people can connect and thrive. I am excited to work alongside EDGE's members, partners, and community leaders to help move Falls City forward.”

Falls City EDGE is a public-private partnership dedicated to promoting economic growth, workforce development, business expansion, housing opportunities, and community vitality. For more information about Falls City EDGE, visit www.FallsCityEDGE.com.