Washington County Industrial Development
2024 Year-End Summary
The Washington County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) is pleased to report on a productive and impactful year in 2024, marked by collaboration, growth, and commitment to the community. Everyone benefits from economic development and growth, and below is a summary of our significant projects and accomplishments over the past year:
2024 Key Highlights:
- “Let’s Grow; Building a Stronger Economy in Washington County” event: Hosted the first-ever county-wide economic development event, bringing together key stakeholders and leaders to discuss economic development initiatives and opportunities.
- Economic Development Policy: Finalized the county’s first Economic Development Policy, creating a framework for fostering investment and growth. Took action to formally present the policy to all county leadership for adoption into best practices.
- Industrial Park Signage: Installed new signage for the industrial park, improving visibility and access for businesses and visitors.
- Purcell Tire & Rubber Co. Expansion Project: Celebrated the groundbreaking for the companies’ expansion to the Industrial Park in partnership with Missouri Department of Economic Development signifying a major investment of over $5 million, new jobs, and a step forward for local manufacturing.
- South Industrial Park Improvement Survey: Conducted a detailed survey to identify and prioritize needed upgrades and opportunities within the park as well as to lay the foundation for the creation of a master plan in the coming months.
- Annual Audit Completion: Successfully completed the IDA’s annual audit, maintaining transparency and accountability.
- Industry Enhancement Grants: Awarded grants to three local businesses, leveraging over $25,000 in investments to support local economic growth through job creation.
- Transfer of Wastewater Treatment Plant #3: Successfully transitioned ownership and operations of the plant to the City of Potosi, ensuring its sustainability and alignment with local needs.
- Business Advisory Committee Launch: Hosted the inaugural advisory committee luncheon, fostering dialogue between local businesses and the IDA.
- IDA Website Updates: Added an “Available Properties” page to the IDA website, providing a vital resource for potential investors and developers.
- Career Mountain Sponsorship: Proud sponsor of the Career Mountain event at Potosi High School, inspiring nearly 700 local students to explore career opportunities in the county.
- Manufacturing Visits: Conducted 23 visits to local manufacturing companies representing over 700 local jobs, reinforcing our commitment to supporting existing businesses. Reported manufacturing jobs grew nearly 2.66% from 2023, nearly doubling the national average of 1.7% since 2022.
- Business Development Workshop: In collaboration with Washington County Health Coalition and Washington County Re-Entry Council, hosted a “Recovery-Friendly Workplace” training, provided by Missouri Extension for business leaders.
- Participation in “Raise the Bar Assess Program”: Partnering with the Missouri Department of Economic Development and the Missouri Agriculture and Small Business Development Authority to evaluate and strengthen local economic development efforts.
- Support for Airport Runway Upgrades: Continued advocacy and support for the runway expansion and upgrades, enhancing transportation infrastructure in the county.
- Professional Development: Attended various trainings offered by the Missouri Economic Development Council, Missouri Department of Economic Development and Ameren Corporation, ensuring the IDA remains at the forefront of best practices and emerging trends in economic development.
- Community Engagement: Delivered presentations through the local Chamber of Commerce and participated in various meetings and events to communicate the IDA’s mission and progress.
- Strategic Plan Updates: Undertook comprehensive updates to the IDA’s strategic plan, setting the stage for future growth and development.
As we look ahead to 2025, the IDA remains committed to fostering economic development, supporting local businesses, and improving the quality of life for all residents in Washington County. Our 2025 plans include an emphasis on workforce development, the expansion of existing Washington County businesses, and improved business attraction efforts.
We extend our gratitude to our partners, stakeholders, and community members for their continued support and collaboration in driving our shared vision forward.
Together, we will continue creating a healthy business environment, growing our knowledge, and retaining the strong businesses who call Washington County home.
Together, we grow.
