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Region looks for help from U.S.D.A

By JEANNE RICHARDSON
Staff Writer

Area business people, educators and government workers gathered on Wednesday afternoon for a meeting of the United States Department of Agriculture/South-Central Kansas Regional Initiative.

The initiative's representatives were on hand for several break-out sessions to explain what they can do to help the area. The initiative, part of USDA Rural Development, can help in areas such as housing, expanding businesses, community and infrastructure needs.

Chuck Banks, USDA Rural Development state director, spoke briefly about the needs in south central Kansas, especially in Cowley County.

"A lot of things are happening here in Cowley County," said Banks. "It seems very appropriate to have our first (south central) meeting here in Winfield."

Lonnie Boyd, Winfield Area Chamber of Commerce CEO, hoped to gain a lot from the meeting. "We need to know what our resources are and how to use them," said Boyd.

Janet Siebert, CEO of the Arkansas City Area Chamber of Commerce, said that the chambers needed to look out for area businesses. Both chamber heads were there representing the partnership they have with Cowley

First, a countywide group that assists in attracting and enhancing businesses. Other meetings in the south central area will be held in Eureka, Hesston and Pratt later in June.