News Summary
Kansas City, Missouri, celebrates a significant economic achievement as the average wage in the city surpasses $76,000. This milestone, emphasized by Steven Anthony of the Economic Development Corporation, reflects the city’s proactive economic strategy, benefiting families and improving the quality of life. As Anthony transitions to a new role in Miami Beach, the EDCKC is searching for a successor to continue fostering business development and entrepreneurship, while also focusing on the needs of the community.
Kansas City
Kansas City, Missouri, has reached a significant economic milestone as the average wage in the city now exceeds $76,000. This achievement has been highlighted by Steven Anthony, the vice president of business development for the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City (EDCKC), who believes this wage growth is pivotal to the city’s economic strategy.
According to Anthony, the increase in average wages has allowed families to better afford basic living expenses as well as recreational activities, contributing to an improved quality of life. His role at EDCKC involved attracting new businesses, supporting existing companies, and fostering entrepreneurship while recognizing the diverse needs of the community.
As Anthony prepares to transition to a new role as the economic development director for the City of Miami Beach in May, the EDCKC is actively seeking his successor. This transition is crucial to ensure that the initiatives he has started continue seamlessly.
Economic Development Strategy
The EDCKC employs a comprehensive four-part approach that focuses on business development, real estate development, entrepreneurship, and tourism. This strategy is more than just offering tax incentives; it also includes providing assistance with navigating city hall, community engagement, permitting, and zoning issues to streamline the process for new businesses.
A key aspect of the EDCKC’s mission is the intentional evaluation of businesses that are welcome into the city, underscoring the importance of inclusion and responsiveness to community needs. The organization also targets underinvested neighborhoods, aiming to bring in businesses that will create local job opportunities.
Successful Initiatives
Among the successful projects that have emerged from this approach are Niagara Bottling and KC Pallets. These manufacturing firms have generated significant employment opportunities in the Kansas City area. Anthony has maintained a principled stance by rejecting offers from businesses that do not align with the community’s goals, even if such offers promise job creation.
Diverse Economic Landscape
Kansas City boasts a diversified economy characterized by strong sectors in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. The EDCKC has leveraged these strengths to propel economic growth in the region. Additionally, the organization is focusing on expanding the technology sector through initiatives like LaunchKC, which is designed to support local tech startups and enhance innovation in the city.
Community engagement remains a crucial element of the EDCKC’s strategy. Anthony emphasizes the necessity of incorporating resident feedback to ensure that the needs and aspirations of local citizens are met effectively. His belief in the significance of economic development aligns with its direct impact on the everyday lives of residents, making this endeavor a personal and communal affair.
Leadership Profile
Steven Anthony is an accomplished economic development professional with experience in banking and finance. He has earned recognition in his field for his dedication and effectiveness in promoting economic development. Academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree from Dillard University and a master’s degree in real estate from Georgetown University.
As Anthony prepares for his forthcoming role in Miami Beach, he will focus on fostering sustainable development and creating new opportunities in the region, demonstrating that his commitment to economic advancement will continue well beyond his tenure in Kansas City.
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Additional Resources
- Startland News: EDCKC Business Development
- Wikipedia: Economic Development
- Dignity Memorial: Steven Halloran Obituary
- Google Search: Kansas City Economic Development
- Community Newspapers: Steven Anthony Director of Economic Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Economic Development
- KSHB: Data Centers Energy Use in Kansas City
- Google News: Kansas City Initiatives
- Amos Family: Steven Garcia Jr. Obituary
- Google Scholar: Kansas City Economic Growth
- Startland News: EDCKC Economic Development Kansas City
- Google Search: Steven Anthony Kansas City
