Over the past several months, Kosciusko County officials have been considering involvement in the state’s Regional Cities Initiative – which hopes to encourage population growth by inspiring regional development, encouraging regional partnerships and fostering financial partnerships.

As has been discussed at previous county and city government meetings, Kosciusko County’s geographical situation between South Bend and Fort Wayne presented two options for a regional partnership. While various county entities have previously worked with the Michiana Area Council of Government in the past, the consensus leading up to the June 11 Kosciusko County Council meeting was the county would be best served partnering with the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership.

Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce President Mark Dobson, along with NIRP President John Sampson and NIRP Vice President Alan Tio, were at the council’s meeting to lobby for Kosciusko County newly created Northeast Indiana Regional Development Authority. “For us, it’s a continuation of the work we’ve been doing for quite awhile,” said Tio. “It’s an opportunity we’re ready for. Our objective is to have an application to the IEDC by July 1.”

Sampson said this would be a multi-stage process. Once the regional development authority is established, a five-member board will be selected. To choose the board, representatives from each member county, as well as representatives from the second and third class cities within the member counties. The board would then be responsible for approving development projects through RCI.

Council President Bob Sanders noted that should Kosciusko County join align with the RDA, it is not required to pay any fees. Money will only come out of the county coffer should it choose to participate in a particular project.

The Kosciusko County Commissioners and city of Warsaw have proclaimed support for partnering with NIRP. Representatives from these organizations were present to reinforce that sentiment.

“Our city council had an open debate and decided this was the right thing to do,” said Warsaw Mayor Joe Thallemer. “I know it seems like it’s moving pretty fast. I appreciate your consideration.”

“If we want representation on that board, that’s going to happen next week,” explained Kosciusko County Commissioner Ron Truex. “Voting tonight is going to be critical.”

Since the RDA would be submitting its application on July 1, the county would need to establish its membership for a chance at representation on the board. “This is a coalition of 11 counties that bring a big voice,” noted Sanders.

An ordinance aligning Kosciusko County’s with with the RDA was taken to a vote. It passed unanimously. “11 for 11 – feels good,” said Sampson following the decision. Kosciusko County joins Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells and Whitley counties in NIRP, the largest regional development authority in the state.