In this month's newsletter, we provide insights into recent developmental news and community updates, share the Broadband Challenge information, welcome new investors, and highlight our legislative advocacy. Show Me Christian County is hard at work for the betterment of the community! | |
Missouri Broad Band Initiative | |
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Missouri Broad Band
Help boost internet coverage in Christian County! With $1.7 billion allocated through the BEAD Program, Missouri aims to enhance broadband access. Participate in the BEAD State Challenge Process to update the Missouri Broadband Map and influence funding decisions by the Office of Broadband Development. Spread the word and encourage others to join in increasing awareness and participation. Deadline for involvement is April 23rd.
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The Springfield Business Journal also highlights Missourians' chance to tackle broadband challenges. Hawkins emphasizes public involvement in distributing $1.7 billion in expansion funds and encourages feedback via an interactive map. He stresses the importance of community input in bridging the digital divide. Read the full article here. | |
Developmental News & Updates | |
In addition to our current active project list, which includes projects such as site development, business attraction, redevelopment, and expansion, SMCC is involved in various development endeavors throughout the county. Please see below for a brief update on development endeavors and discussions occurring countywide. | |
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Billings
- Melissa Venable was elected as the new Billings mayor.
- SMCC has been working with the city and school district to address after school care and childcare on Mondays. Major progress has been made and will hopefully implemented during the summer or at the beginning of next school year.
- $9M Waste Water Treatment Plant is needed to grow the community. There is only capacity for 30-40 new homes.
Clever & Sparta School Districts
- Both the Clever School District's 'No new tax' bond increase and the Sparta R-3 School District's proposed levy transfer, with no tax increase, were approved by voters, enabling improvements such as additional classroom space, safety enhancements, and increased operating revenue without added strain on taxpayers.
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Nixa
- There is prime retail space available and commercial sites with infrastructure available off Hwy 14.
- The City of Nixa is in the process of updating their Comprehensive Plan, which will serve as the community’s guiding document for planning efforts through 2045.
Ozark
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The Planning and Zoning Commission passed an ordinance to require a neighborhood meeting prior to certain development activities, including rezoning. This will be presented to the Board of Alderman on April 15. Please provide comments here for SMCC to share with the board.
Christian County
- The County Commission is currently considering an application for a Black Mountain Energy Storage facility, which is a $100M Investment. Public meeting is on April 18th.
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Mark your calendars for our next First Tuesday meeting on May 7th at Nixa City Hall. Your presence and input are always valued and contribute greatly to our community discussions. Please note that this event is for investors only or by approved invite. | |
We extend our gratitude to all who participated in our meeting on April 2nd. Stimulating and insightful conversations were held on the theme of 'Christian County Communities,' allowing cities/towns to articulate their requirements and challenges in furthering the economic development of their communities. | | |
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The next board meeting will take place at 10:00am on Wednesday, May 15th, 2024 at Nixa City Hall. This is an investor-only meeting.
Be sure to mark your calendars. We look forward to seeing you there!
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We are excited to welcome Commerce Bank, Crossland Construction, and Guaranty Bank as new investors in Show Me Christian County.
The work of economic development relies on diverse partnerships across sectors. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our investors for their dedication to economic growth in Christian County and Southwest Missouri.
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Brace yourselves for an eventful 2026. With major happenings like the centennial celebration of Route 66, the United States Semiquincentennial, and the World Cup, our community is set to be in the spotlight. As travelers flock to the historic Route 66, traversing through our county, we expect a significant increase in visitors. Springfield and Branson, being big pitstops on Route 66, will likely see a surge in tourist activity, even though Branson isn't directly on the route. Given the significance of these historical events, 2026 has the potential to attract an even larger number of tourists, creating an unprecedented year for our community. With approximately 2-3 million tourists traveling Route 66 yearly, the influx of visitors is expected to surge, influenced by events and promotions.
Though it's two years away, it's important to start planning ahead. These events could have a positive impact on our community, and being prepared will ensure we make the most of the opportunities they bring. More information to come.
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The "Shop Where You Live" campaign promotes local businesses, job creation, public services, and sustainability. SMCC shares "Shop Where You Live" content every 1st and 3rd Saturday!
Access the media kit and calendar below.
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Transportation Day
Kristen Haseltine was invited to join the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce and members of the Chamber's Transportation Committee as they visited elected officials in Jefferson City on March 26th. Their objective was to emphasize the critical need for ongoing infrastructure investment, particularly for I-44.
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In our 2024 Legislative Priorities & Advocacy, we're concentrating on vital issues for Christian County's economic development. These include securing funding for I-44 expansion, improving accessibility to childcare services, and opposing revenue-cutting legislation that could undermine municipal services. Additionally, we're closely monitoring annexation bills that could impact emergency services. | |
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Our efforts are further supported by FastDemocracy, a user-friendly platform that simplifies the tracking of legislation at both state and federal levels in the United States. With thousands of bills introduced annually, FastDemocracy ensures accuracy and timeliness of legislative data, empowering advocates to develop and execute effective advocacy strategies.
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