PCDI Plans Future Business Seminars, Annual Meeting

Prior to Executive Director Lance Benninghoff’s resignation announcement to the board members of Prowers County Development Incorporated in executive session, he reviewed some options for guest speakers at the PCDI annual meeting and future business seminar topics.

“We might consider moving our annual meeting to Granada or Holly and have Lee Merkel from the Department of Local Affairs as a speaker,” Benninghoff suggested.  Board members want to have PCDI viewed as a county-wide organization for economic development, and not just Lamar oriented.  Benninghoff said DoLA representatives would be appropriate in light of the infrastructure study grants that have recently been allocated for both communities.  The studies will help position both Holly and Granada for future improvements to their utility and water systems.  Board members will also review non-conflicting dates for the annual meeting with both communities.  Board member, Aaron Lieker suggested that prior to the annual meeting; the board should develop a membership plan presentation for prospective members.

Based on a large attendance for a seminar for forklift certification held at the Rodeway Cow Palace Inn late last year, members reviewed potential training subjects for 2015.  Suggestions ranged from hazardous materials classes for general business as well as farm and ranch operations, another forklift certification seminar, general legalities and liability issues for businesses and regulations regarding liquor sales for clerks.  The next PCDI board meeting is set for February 24.

By Russ Baldwin