By Connie Whitlock
Publishing Editor
Mayor Defines the Purpose of the Meeting
What is economic development, and why is Pleasant Hill focusing on it now?
City leaders aimed to answer those questions during the recent Economic Development 101 forum, where residents gathered to learn how economic development could shape the community’s future.
Mayor Don Donovan explained that the event was designed to help residents learn about economic development and build a shared understanding before the city moves forward with plans to establish an Economic Development Council.
“The truth is economic development touches all of those things,” Donovan said. “It affects the services the city can provide, the strength of our local economy, and the opportunities we create for future generations.”
City Administrator Explains the Financial Challenges
Building on the mayor’s remarks, City Administrator Kristen Dorman explained why city leaders believe the discussion is important now.
Pleasant Hill, like many Missouri communities, is facing rising costs. As infrastructure ages, maintenance expenses continue to increase. Equipment, materials, contractor services, and employee-related costs have all risen in recent years. At the same time, property tax revenue is expected to remain relatively flat, sales tax growth has slowed, and interest earnings have declined.
Dorman said the city expects approximately $2.1 million in property tax revenue and $2.5 million in sales tax revenue this year. With expenses rising faster than revenues, she said local governments have limited options.
“There are only a few strategies that cities have to address long-term challenges,” Dorman said. “We can reduce services. We can ask residents to pay more for new or increased taxes. Or we can try to grow our economy and expand our tax base.”
Dorman said economic development is one of the most effective tools available to improve the city’s long-term financial position without placing additional costs on residents.
Regional Experts Join the Conversation
Moderator Stephanie Bordner of Collins Webb Architecture led a panel featuring Tina Chace, Executive Director of the Platte County Economic Development Council, and Tracy Brantner, Executive Director of the Johnson County Economic Development Corporation. They discussed regional experience with workforce development, business retention, infrastructure, and community growth.
Economic Development Is More Than Business Recruitment
Panelists addressed the misconception that economic development is only about recruiting new businesses.
Panelists said supporting and growing existing businesses is as important as attracting new ones. Economic development acts as a support system for both entrepreneurs and established businesses.
“Because if you’re not providing a support system for them day to day, every day, you’re probably missing one of the biggest economic development tools that can do wonders for your community,” Brantner said.
One panelist described small businesses as the community’s “bread and butter” and said helping existing businesses grow is often just as important as attracting new investment.
Chace encouraged Pleasant Hill to focus on its unique qualities—its identity, downtown character, and the creation of memorable experiences for residents and visitors.
“People want the experience,” Chace said.
She also challenged residents to think about what sets Pleasant Hill apart, asking, “What’s your unique selling feature?”
Housing Emerges as a Major Topic
Panelists explained that housing availability plays a significant role in economic development and in attracting businesses. Tina Chace noted that communities must think about both housing and placemaking, explaining that “Housing and placemaking mean this is a great place to live, but it can also be a great place to work.” She also emphasized the importance of workforce access, stating, “If the workforce is not close enough to come, it doesn’t matter. They won’t even have a conversation.”
A Long-Term Investment
Panelists stressed repeatedly that economic development is not a quick fix.
Successful communities often spend years planning, building infrastructure, forming partnerships, and preparing sites before opportunities arise. One economic development professional shared an example of a project that began in 2006 and is only now entering its next phase.
“That’s how long this journey takes,” she said. “That’s the kind of persistence, patience, and fortitude that this kind of activity takes.”
The discussion emphasized that meaningful economic development requires a long-term vision, strategic planning, and persistent community effort. Quick fixes are not effective; successful outcomes depend on steady commitment and collaboration.
Looking Ahead
City leaders made it clear that the goal is not growth simply for growth’s sake.
“We want to support our local businesses, attract the kind of opportunities that fit our community, strengthen our tax base, and preserve the character and quality of life that make Pleasant Hill such a special place to live,” Donovan said.
Leaders encouraged residents to remain active participants, ask questions, and help guide Pleasant Hill’s future by staying engaged in ongoing discussions about creating an Economic Development Council.
What’s Next?
City leaders described the Economic Development 101 forum as the initial step in a broader process. A steering committee is active, funds are allocated for relevant studies, and the next phases will use forum feedback to help shape priorities.
Residents interested in becoming involved were encouraged to stay engaged, attend future meetings, and contact city officials about serving on the council as plans move forward.
Although no specific workforce housing projects were announced, housing was repeatedly identified as a critical component of economic development. Panelists said future planning efforts and community input will help shape the city’s priorities as Pleasant Hill continues exploring opportunities for growth and investment.
