The Corridor is governed by a 16-person board, four representatives from each of our four counties. Who are these people and just what do they do?
The board sets the strategic direction for the organization, hires – and perhaps fires – the CEO, ensures sufficient resources are available to accomplish the mission, and serves as an advocate to the public.
The FY 2020 board is an all-start team drawn from manufacturing, banking, small business and public service.
Four seats are reserved for elected officials, one from each county. That is a relatively recent change. This gives taxpayers direct influence on regional economic development.
Board terms are three years and members can serve no more than two consecutive terms. The chairmanship is a one-year commitment that rotates among the counties. Other officers include the treasurer, chair-elect and President & CEO.
Each April a nominating committee brings forward a slate of candidates to fill seats that will be vacant at the end of the fiscal year. The list is shared via this newsletter with members, who then have the opportunity to nominate additional candidates by petition. Once the ballot is set, it is sent to the full membership, more than 120 strong, by email.
Those are the mechanics, but, of course, it’s character that counts.
Board members must have curiosity, strategic vision, and the work ethic to stay engaged. Most importantly, they must have a sense of agency, a belief that outcomes are not inevitable and that it is possible to influence the economy here in Northwest Iowa for the better through the application of positive pressure in areas of need and opportunity. Workforce, housing, entrepreneurship, business growth: all are dynamic and therefore all are within the reach of intelligent leadership.
In the coming weeks, we will features short bios of every Corridor board member right here. If you know people with the the right stuff to join this team, please consider nominating them by petition later this spring. To learn more, call Kiley Miller, 319.537.1550.
