Over 100 people attended the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of Wayne County’s annual meeting on Monday, May 5^th in Lingle Auditorium on the Reid Health campus. Lunch sponsors were the Indiana Municipal Power Agency (IMPA) and Whitewater Valley REMC. The EDC recognized companies who invested in Wayne County in 2024, as well as past chair and board members, and presented the Economic Development Partnership Award.

Business investment awards were presented to three companies who collectively invested $67.8 million leading to the creation of 118 full-time jobs. Companies recognized include:

Richmond Beverage Solutions

• $44.8 million investment
• Projected creation of 65 full-time jobs

Vandor Group, Inc.

• $6 million investment
• Projected creation of 23 full-time jobs

Transcendia, Inc.

• $17 million investment
• Projected creation of 30 full-time jobs

In addition, the EDC conducted 73 visits to local companies providing connections, tools, resources, and educational institutions to help support operations and grow their labor force.

The EDC presented the Economic Development Partnership Award to the Richmond Fire Department (RFD) for their work in removing structures on the property acquired for the new Phase III of the Midwest Industrial Park in Richmond. Economic Development Manager, Sarah Mitchell worked with RFD to coordinate controlled burns on three homesteads, including several accessory structures. RFD used the project as training for their staff as well as for neighboring rural fire departments.

The EDC recognized four outgoing board members for their time and contributions to the community and the EDC.

Chad Bolser served two three-year terms. During his time on the board he served on the Marketing and Communications Committee. He was appointed by the Wayne County Area Chamber of Commerce.

Ann Fennimore served one three-year term on the board and served on the Marketing and Communications Committee. She was appointed by Richmond Common Council.

Kyle Turner served two three-year terms and served as Secretary from 2022 to 2024. He was appointed by the Centerville Town Council.

Peter Zaleski served two three-year terms and served as Treasurer from 2020 to 2022, Vice Chair in 2023, and Chair in 2024. He was appointed by Wayne County Council.

2024 Year in Review

EDC President, Valerie Shaffer provided a 2024 year-end review of the direction and activities of the EDC and the significant collaboration among our community partners and elected officials. As the focus of economic development has expanded into talent development and placemaking, the EDC has adapted as well. The EDC has either led or partnered with various entities to accomplish the planning and execution of READI 1.0 and 2.0, the Hoosier Enduring Legacy Program (HELP), Earlham’s Revitalize Richmond Plan, numerous housing projects under development, blight removal, exploring child care solutions, and a new brand strategy for the Home in Wayne Talent Recruitment and Attraction Initiative. Shaffer pointed out there is one constant through all the work being done and that is collaboration. Without regional and county partners and our stakeholders very little would be accomplished. Through collaboration we can make Wayne County stronger for the future.