Tri-State Spotlight: How Moberly, MO is Tackling the Housing Crisis
Moberly, Missouri, is tackling the rural housing crisis through collaborative private-public efforts, and it's getting results. Not unlike other small towns throughout the country where a lack of adequate housing stifles growth, Moberly needs affordable housing.
The "Magic City," a nickname given to Moberly early last century when it grew explosively while serving as a railroad hub between St. Louis and Kansas City, is making significant progress. Slated for development this year, there are two multi-unit housing projects that are anticipated to yield nearly 300 new units, and another 8 single-family housing units are planned. Currently, five private developers are working on projects in the town boasting around 13,900 residents.
Schnell Construction, LLC is developing the "Dream Moore Falls Project" in the 1400 block of S. Williams Street. This project will yield 193 units and is slated for mixed-use, including senior housing and multi-family units. It is similar to the developments currently underway in the existing Lantern Pointe and Angels Landing subdivisions. The E. Urbandale Development will result in 98 units of multi-family duplex residences.
The City of Moberly has supported these private developers by selling condemned houses and lots to create affordable infill housing across the entire city. Adaptive reuse of vacant, unused properties has many benefits beyond providing needed housing, including preserving historic charm, improving neighborhood blight, and bringing properties back onto tax rolls. Furthermore, the City of Moberly is investing in commercial development and infrastructure projects through grant applications to support economic development and future growth.
"Several years ago, city officials recognized the necessity of increasing the accessibility of workforce housing while addressing numerous blighted properties through strategic planning initiatives." Kaylee Paffrath, Director of Business Development at Moberly Area Economic Development Corporation, explains, "During these initial discussions, Brian Crane and the entire team at the City of Moberly truly took the initiative to listen to their community's needs and implemented plans to fulfill these requests. Presently, we are witnessing the positive outcomes of these endeavors and anticipate future growth in both our workforce and community."
Article originally published 6/19/23 in the June 2023 | Issue 8 Tri-State Development Regional Report.
Planning in Progress
Jim Fram, Community Growth Strategies, presented the final draft of MAEDC's Strategic Plan to the board of directors at last week's meeting. We are pleased to provide you with the updated demographic reports that were used to establish the framework of the upcoming strategic plan.
Please find them below:
On Monday, June 12, the Board of Directors for the Randolph County Ambulance District convened in a specially called session. Following a motion, second, and unanimous approval, the board entered into a closed session to discuss contracts. After thorough deliberations, the board reconvened in an open session.
During the open session, a motion was put forth and seconded to establish a partnership agreement between the County of Randolph and the City of Moberly for joint 911 Dispatch Operations. The vote resulted in six members voting in favor, with no opposing votes recorded.
Subsequently, another motion was made and successfully passed, granting authorization to the board chairman to sign the agreement on behalf of the district.
In an official press release, the Ambulance District Board expressed their enthusiasm for collaborating with the county and city, aiming to set and surpass a standard of excellence for our communities.
Help Contribute to the Missouri Digital Asset Map
The University of Missouri Extension, in partnership with the Office of Broadband Development, has launched a statewide digital asset map. They are seeking assets to add to the map from our community and business partners.
Assets include items such as: public WiFi hotspots, public computer locations, digital upskilling classes, hotspot lending programs, and telehealth support. If you have assets to share, please consider adding them to the map before August 31, 2023.
Seeking the Perfect Location for Your Business? Look no further than the Howard County Industrial Park! Strategically situated, this prime industrial hub offers state-of-the-art facilities, abundant space, and easy access to major transportation routes. Discover the advantages of Howard County Industrial Park for your business success!
MISSOURI WORKS| Facilitating the creation of quality jobs through targeted business projects.
The Missouri Works Program is an economic development initiative implemented by the state of Missouri. It is designed to encourage businesses to expand, relocate, or create jobs within the state. The program provides various incentives and benefits to eligible companies to support their growth and stimulate the economy.
KWIXLand Business Spotlight: Mizzou-Small Business Development Center (Mizzou-SBDC)
Paul Zacharias and Marsha Moore from the Mizzou Small Business Development Center (Mizzou-SBDC) were Brad Boyer's guests on today's KWIXLand Business Spotlight.
During their guest appearance on KWIXLand Business Spotlight, Paul Zacharias and Marsha Moore shed light on the comprehensive services provided by the Mizzou SBDC. They emphasized the importance of tailored guidance, which includes business planning, financial analysis, marketing strategies, and more. By understanding each business's unique needs, the SBDC team ensures that entrepreneurs receive the support and resources necessary to achieve their goals.
The duo also shared what to expect at the upcoming SBDC Roadshow Lunch & Learn at MAEDC (115 N. Williams St.) on Thursday, July 13th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A light lunch will be provided.
You can RSVP for the event here or feel free to show up on the day of.
Capitol Report - June 2023
LOUIS RIGGS
State Representative
District 5
SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans Available to
Missouri Small Businesses
Primary Counties
Benton, Boone, Cole, Cooper, Howard, Moniteau, and Morgan
Audrain, Callaway, Camden, Chariton, Henry, Hickory, Miller, Osage, Pettis, Randolph, Saint Clair and Saline
Missouri Economic Dashboard
