The Washington County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) has released its 2025 Year-End Summary, highlighting a year of strategic planning, community engagement, and economic development initiatives aimed at strengthening the county’s long-term growth.
Throughout 2025, the IDA Board of Directors and Consulting Director, Jaclyn Rowe, focused on advancing responsible economic development, supporting local businesses, and improving infrastructure readiness to attract and retain investment in Washington County.
“This year brought both challenges and momentum built through collaboration, transparency, and long-term planning,” said Jaclyn Rowe, Consulting Director of the Washington County IDA. “Every initiative in 2025 was rooted in creating opportunities for businesses, residents, and future generations.”
2025 Key Highlights Include:
- Strategic Planning & Governance
- Adopted the 2025 IDA budget and maintained regular board oversight with an annual audit performed.
- Welcomed Sarah Land as its newest member of the IDA Board of Directors. Mrs. Land was appointed by the County Commission following the resignation of Mr. Reggie Rowe. The IDA would like to thank Mr. Rowe for his contribution and dedication to the community. Mrs. Land is a Potosi native who has worked in the field of public accounting for 21 years and as a CPA, credentialed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, for 17 years. Her financial expertise brings tremendous value to the IDA Board. Land also serves as a mentor to local students through the Young Faith in Christ organization. She and her husband of 22 years, Justin, have three daughters, one a recent graduate of PHS, and the other two actively involved in the Potosi R-3 school district.
“As a life-long resident of Washington County, I am grateful for the opportunity to give back to our community by serving on the IDA Board. I look forward to learning more about economic development strategies and to working with the other IDA board members and Director Rowe to move the county forward.” said Land.
- Director Rowe attended the Missouri Governor’s Conference on Economic Development to learn best practices for local economic development efforts and to remain current on legislation impacting small business and community development.
- Conducted strategic planning work sessions to align priorities with county-wide goals, including improved marketing efforts through collaboration with County government and the airport, gained workforce development partnerships, and renewed commitment to local business growth.
- Economic Development Initiatives
- Pursued continued funding through the Let’s Grow Washington County sales tax initiative with public engagement and education. While the public did not approve further tax support; public awareness of the IDA, its activities, collaboration, and role in the county improved.
- Relaunched the Industrial Enhancement Grant in partnership with SEED$, Southeast Economic Development program to support local businesses and create new jobs with a matching grant opportunity of up to $10,000.
- Business & Community Support
- Hosted professional development workshops, including business and technology training on using AI in Business.
- Engaged residents and business owners through town halls and informational events.
- Visited 19 local manufacturers to discuss needs and growth opportunities.
- Celebrated the grand-opening of Purcell Central Distribution & Fleet Support in the Washington County Industrial Park and the creation of new jobs in the county.
- The IDA is working with 4 local businesses on expansion projects which would result in nearly 50 NEW jobs in 2026 – 2027.
- The IDA continues working on a project with Brown Energy Solutions Inc. and H2O Technologies to bring substantial growth to the Industrial Park, more new jobs, and community benefits in the coming years.
- The IDA has been encouraged by and engaged with leadership at Midwest Textiles & Supplies to improve workforce training and recruitment in the county. Activities began with industry tours for educators at Red Wing Shoes, Purcell Tire and Rubber Co., H2O Technologies, and Midwest Textiles & Supplies and resulted in job opportunities and growing partnerships between local school districts and the Missouri Job Center.
Infrastructure & Industrial Park Oversight
- Reviewed utility studies, insurance coverage, and infrastructure needs.
- Renewed lease agreements and local employment opportunities.
- Continued discussions on transportation improvements, including a potential turning lane at Ameren Drive into the park and long-term industrial park planning.
Looking Ahead
As the IDA enters 2026, priorities include implementing economic development funding strategies, a business survey in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, expanding business support programs, and continuing investments that position Washington County for sustainable growth. A major focus for the year will be on workforce development in partnership with Potosi R-3 School District, Kingston K-14 School District, and Valley R-VI School District through the launch of an Industry & Education Partnership in Washington County.
“Our love for the place we live continues to drive our resolve. We are pleased with the creation of nearly 50 new jobs in Washington County and look forward with optimism to continued growth.” said Director Rowe.
The 2026-2029 IDA Strategic Plan can be found online at www.washingtoncomo.com under IDA NEWS. Anyone interested in following the activities of Washington County IDA can subscribe to IDA NEWS on our website and/or follow Washington County Industrial Development Authority on Facebook.
The Washington County IDA thanks its partners, elected officials, business community, and residents for their continued support and collaboration.
Together, we grow.
