NREDA News Brief | June 2021
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NREDA Members,
What is the new normal for Rural America? How are our economic developers and electric cooperatives planning to recover and grow from this pandemic? Are we content with a small semblance of normalcy? Or are we looking to recover bigger, stronger, more nimble and agile than before?
History teaches us that the foundation of our civilization is riddled with one common theme…change. Change in our environment or way of life, from shear hunter-gathers to innovative Agri-Tech renaissance collaborators. Feeding the world in rapid form. But history has also shown us the more challenging, unpredictable, natural phenomenon of environmental disasters. Every leading civilization has dealt with it, changed for the better, or struggled to survive in its wake.
So, who are we in America? Rural and Urban. Are we the status quo? Are we complacent and risk-averse to a new way of sustainable living and growth?
NREDA has continued to revisit the sustainability and growth of rural communities. In order to continue this mission, it is imperative that we grow our economic developer-based organization to 100% goal in national membership base. That means, that NREDA has representation in each of the 50 states and territories that make up this great country. To collaborate on rural America in such a dynamic way, that urban America, not only recognizes our impact but finds their own specific return on investment (ROI), in NREDA.
Today we find ourselves in a place of transition nationally with thoughts on how to build back our rural places, but I would implore you as economic development professionals, electric cooperative leaders, and more, to extend your thinking beyond our previous views of what normal means.
Through expanding our reach in Broadband sustainability, diversity and inclusion, merging this with the fundamental needs for infrastructure for rural America. Additionally, let us dig deep into our housing normalcy, lack of inventory, due to our traditionalistic views on what normal is, we now see a budding opportunity for Rural places to take the lead, in planning, building codes, etc. to create opportunities for 3D print housing, tiny homes, rural community investment funds for housing and entrepreneurship. Let us look to be more nimble, more vocal, and more doggedly focused on the continued resurgence of Rural America. We do not need to get back to normal, we need to create a new future for Rural America. Join NREDA in this effort. We are National. Rural. Connected.
NREDA President – Garry Clark
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June NREDA Happy Hour Hosted by Nick Poels
One of the most effective ways to shape policy and public opinion is by harnessing the collective strength of individuals within your community/group and using that power to engage elected officials. Join the discussion at the next NREDA happy hour, as we talk about Grassroots Advocacy; NREDA Past President, Clare Gustin will be starting the dialog and sharing her knowledge.
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NREDA 2021 Annual Conference
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Guide to Bourbon Tasting
Each blend of Bourbon contains its own unique flavor and aroma. When tasting Bourbon, it is important to keep the following tips in mind.
- Allow a few sips before deciding whether you like the blend as it takes your mouth time to adjust to the warmth.
- Rinse your mouth with water before trying another flavor.
- Begin tasting lower-proof blends before moving up so your tastebuds have room to grow.
There will be a variety of speakers, workshops, and breakouts at the 2021 Annual Conference. Come prepared to try new and diverse things!
A quick reminder that registration opens in August 2021. The excitement is building, and we can’t wait to break out our suitcases for an insightful and educational trip to Louisville.
Opportunities to Explore Louisville
Louisville is filled with historical land mines, and you have the unique opportunity to explore several excursions. Below are the tours available:
- Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory
- Kentucky Derby Museum
- Bourbon Barrel Foods Factory
- McAlpine Lock and Dam Tour
- Falls of the Ohio State Park and Interpretive Center
Don’t forget to pack your walking shoes and explore the unique treasures of Louisville in November.
A quick reminder that registration opens in August 2021. The excitement is building, and we can’t wait to break out our suitcases for an insightful and educational trip to Louisville.
NREDA 2021 Annual Conference
Distilling a Brighter Future for Rural America
November 10–12, 2021
The Galt House Hotel
Louisville, Kentucky
NREDA is optimistic for the November event to be in person and will follow state, local and CDC guidelines. We are working with the hotel on attendee number limits, room set up, food and beverage safety, etc. to ensure the safest event possible.
Questions? Contact Denise Hoffman, CMP, Event Management Professional meetings@nreda.org or (515) 334-1049
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NREDA Membership Campaign
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David Cleveland and the NREDA Membership Committee could use your help recruiting new members to NREDA. As you know NREDA members are the lifeblood of the association and your board of directors has strategic goals to grow the NREDA family.
Each state will have a captain leading the charge and providing resources to recruit new members. If you are wanting to connect with your state captain, reach out to Kailah Schmitz, NREDA Executive Director at director@nreda.org.
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By: Janet Ady
Remember the good old days? When recruiting talent meant a nice tagline and a flashy campaign showing lots of smiling people at the local fair? When simply having head of household jobs was enough? The “build it and they will come” days are long gone in this post-pandemic era. Truth be told, they were gone long before. Talent recruitment today is increasingly nuanced.
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USDA Resources and Opportunities for Rural Development
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development has unveiled the Rural Innovation Stronger Economy (RISE) grant program which is intended to help rural communities create good-paying jobs and support new business opportunities in high-growth fields. RISE provides grants of up to $2 million to consortiums of local governments, investors, industry, institutions of higher education, and other public and private entities in rural areas. Funds may be used to form job accelerator partnerships and create high-wage jobs, start or expand businesses, support economic growth, and establish and operate innovation centers and partnerships. Applicants are encouraged to contact their nearest USDA Rural Development State Office ahead of the application deadline on August 2, 2021 at 11:59 p.m. ET. Applications are currently being accepted electronically via Grants.gov. For additional information about the program, click here.
USDA has also recently unveiled a Resource Guide for Rural Workforce Development to help rural community leaders start and expand employment opportunities and access resources to train, recruit, and create a sustainable rural workforce. The resource guide outlines programs and services available at USDA and other federal agencies that support workforce development in rural communities and features examples of how customers have used USDA programs to support four key assistance types: workforce development planning; infrastructure and equipment financing; industry and employer engagement, entrepreneurship, and local business development; and education, training and apprenticeship. Access the resource guide here.
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Transportation and Infrastructure Negotiations Continue
This week, a bipartisan group of lawmakers unveiled a proposed infrastructure plan in an effort to reach a bipartisan agreement on infrastructure legislation. The bipartisan infrastructure plan would provide $1.2 trillion in physical infrastructure spending over eight years. Other transportation and infrastructure proposals that have been put forward thus far have included the Biden Administration's more than $2 trillion American Jobs Plan and $1.8 trillion American Families Plan. Last week, the House Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee also approved its $547 billion surface transportation reauthorization proposal, the INVEST in America Act, while the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee unanimously approved a $311 billion surface transportation reauthorization bill in May.
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Please Provide Your Input: Planning and Environment Linkages Resources and Training Needs Query
The NADO Research Foundation is collecting information about Planning and Environment Linkages (PEL) for rural and smaller metropolitan regional-level transportation planning. We would like to hear how environmental considerations are incorporated into your planning process, how public involvement helps to identify potential environmental impacts, and how environmental considerations have bolstered project delivery in your region. Please take a moment to complete a short questionnaire on your agency’s current approach to PEL and let us know what planning resources or training you would find helpful on the topic. The response deadline is June 25. Thank you for your input!
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USDA Seeking Applications for Grants to Support Rural Water and Waste Infrastructure
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development is accepting applications for grants to help very small communities expand or improve water or waste disposal systems. Instead of providing grants directly to individuals, businesses, or communities, the Water and Wastewater Revolving Funds Program allows state and local government entities and private nonprofits to use the grants to establish lending programs to help expand or improve water and waste disposal systems in rural communities with a population of 10,000 or less. The revolving loan funds may provide individual loans of up to $200,000 for a maximum term of 10 years. The loans can be used for pre-development planning costs and for short-term or small capital improvement projects that are not part of the regular operation and maintenance of the water or waste system. Applications must be submitted electronically through grants.gov no later than 9:00 p.m. PT on July 16, 2021.
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NTIA Releases Updated Version of its Federal Broadband Funding Guide
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) has released an updated database with information on more than 80 federal programs across 14 federal agencies whose funding can be used for broadband-related purposes. This comprehensive “one-stop shop” for broadband resources, created with the help of participating federal agencies, supports the Biden Administration’s push for universal high-speed internet access and focus on closing the digital divide. Funding opportunities include direct grants, loans, indirect support, and discounts for industry, state and local governments, schools, libraries, small businesses, and other community institutions that are interested in expanding and improving broadband access. Visitors to the website can search for programs by agency, program purpose, and eligible recipients. As agencies release new funding opportunities, NTIA will update the site. The information is also available as a downloadable spreadsheet to allow users to sort the material by selected criteria. Click here to access the site and funding guide.
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Executive Director
The Omaha-Council Bluffs Metropolitan Area Planning Agency (MAPA) is seeking an Executive Director to provide leadership, oversight and direction for all operational functions of the agency. This position reports to the MAPA Board of Directors and is responsible for providing assistance and professional recommendations on fiscal matters including the preparation of the annual budget, policy considerations, strategic planning, local and regional transportation and community development initiatives, and legislative issues and activities. The Executive Director represents the agency at meetings, conventions, and other forums to promote and explain agency mission and objectives. This position is responsible for ensuring that the agency maintains federal certification and provides leadership and consultation to government agencies, the business community, private organizations, the press and the public to explain and resolve complex issues and to coordinate activities related to the transportation system, land-use and development.
The starting salary ranges from $100,000 - $150,000 annually, depending upon qualifications and experience. This is a full-time exempt position. MAPA offers generous employee benefits as well as a flexible, supportive, and family-friendly work environment and a commitment to ongoing professional development. Our office is located close to downtown Omaha, in a transit-oriented and bicycle-friendly environment. MAPA reserves the right to hire at an appropriate level. MAPA is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Resumes and applications will be accepted through Sunday, June 13, 2021.
Please view the full job posting linked below to review responsibilities and qualifications: MAPA Executive Director
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NREDA Happy Hours
Last Wednesday of every month:
- May 26
- June 30
- July 28
- August 25
- September 29
- October 27
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NREDA & NRECA/Touchstone Energy Webinar
Co-op Community Contest Wrap up
June 23, 1:00 p.m. CST
NREDA Annual Conference
November 10-12, 2021
Louisville, KY
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Executive Director
Meetings & Conferences
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Membership Dues, Billing
NREDA Website
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