Holdrege becomes state’s second ED certified community

LINCOLN, NEB. (March 24, 2006)—The city of Holdrege has earned designation as the state’s second economic development certified community, joining Ord, which was designated in December 2005.

“Holdrege is a progressive community that promotes itself well,” said Governor Dave Heineman. “This certification shows its dedication, leadership, and vision for growing and attracting new jobs and people.”

Holdrege, population 5,671, is the county seat of Phelps County. In 2002, the community passed LB840, the Local Option Municipal Economic Development Act, adding another local economic development tool to its toolbox. Holdrege is viewed as progressive in terms of investments it makes in its businesses, and the overall community.

Sponsored by the Nebraska Diplomats, Inc., and development partners, and administered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development, the certification program provides technical assistance to communities throughout the application process. It is one of only a few programs in the nation that recognizes communities for economic development preparedness.

“Holdrege has again proven itself. [This certification] shows that Holdrege and the state are ‘open for business’,” said Don Heimes, Nebraska Diplomats president. “The Economic Development Certified Community achievement further demonstrates the community’s proactive commitment to enhancing its economic development environment and opportunities.”

To qualify for certification, communities must meet criteria described in the application form. The certification process is ongoing and noncompetitive. Communities that exhibit the required documented economic development readiness as specified in the program criteria, and approved by a review committee will earn certification. Each applicant is judged against standards that include organization, local industry target identification and workforce issues, infrastructure, local financing and business assistance, building and site availability, and other program parameters.

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Linda Fettig at 308-749-2291, or email: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it