Title
A Resolution providing funding to the Greater Wichita Partnership in the amount of $45,000 to hire a consultant to develop a comprehensive economic strategy.
Body
Recommended Action: Approve the Resolution.
Greater Wichita Partnership (GWP) has requested $45,000 from Sedgwick County to engage the services of a consultant to direct an initiative to bring more focus to GWP's regional economic development efforts. This one-time request, if provided, is intended to be leveraged with $45,000 from the City of Wichita and another $45,000 from GWP. Sedgwick County's committment would represent one-third of the consultant's work.
The proposed consulting engagement would be designed with two primary goals:
1. Develop a strategic plan for GWP that establishes an organizational structure to optimize and coordinate regional economic development efforts that grow opportunities, help create and maintain jobs, and promote the region as an attractive place to locate and/or grow a business.
2. Bring clarity and innovative ways for the Blueprint for Regional Economic Growth (BREG) to expand. We need to develop strategies to work together as a region to maintain and grow the Aerospace clusters for which we are known globally; while working to attract and grow businesses in other industries that will strengthen and diversify the regional economy.
Alternatives: Do not approve this funding request.
Financial Considerations: A one-time expense of $45,000 which would come from the existing economic development funds within the County budget.
Legal Considerations:
Policy Considerations: