Quarterly Update: A Strong Start to 2025 in Clark County

As we wrap up the first quarter of 2025, we’re proud to share what’s been happening behind the scenes at Choose Clark County. From new partnerships and funding pursuits to meaningful conversations around childcare, housing, and community spaces, it’s already shaping up to be a big year.

💼 Business Growth & Development

We began the year connecting with regional leaders in Watertown Economic Development to explore opportunities for collaboration. They affirmed that Clark County is well within their network of support, especially with so many residents commuting between communities.

Our Revolving Loan Fund continues to serve local businesses, and we submitted a request to USDA for additional support to grow our impact. We also met with the Clark Area Community Foundation to discuss funding that would help strengthen our capacity and strategic partnerships in 2025.

We’re continuing to keep economic development front and center, keeping in touch with local leaders, business owners, and partners to support and expand opportunities across the county.

🏘️ Housing & Infrastructure

Housing remains a key focus. We're continuing efforts to promote the Logan Addition in Willow Lake, gathering updated information on available residential lots throughout the county, and exploring walkable housing options for singles and seniors near the courthouse in Clark.

We’re also tracking potential development models that would fit our communities, and we’re connecting with regional builders and funders to move ideas forward.

👶 Child Care & Community Services

This quarter brought renewed conversations around childcare needs. We heard from providers and community members who highlighted the challenges of infant care, summer programming for kids aged 5–10, and space constraints. We're exploring flexible childcare building models—some of which could be converted into housing if community needs change in the future.

We’re also in contact with the USDA about grant options focused on equipment and furnishings to make projects more viable and timely.

🛝 Recreation & Youth Activities

Community voices have spoken—and there’s a clear need for more programming and space for youth activities like gymnastics, volleyball, and softball. Through our “Join the Conversation” initiative, we’ve brought together local educators, parents, and volunteers to discuss ideas and identify priorities.

We're assessing what types of spaces (e.g., 40x40 multi-use areas) could serve these programs, and exploring partnerships to help bring them to life.

🌱 Innovation & Sustainability

Our work on renewable energy and sustainability projects is expanding. We’ve been connected with a South Dakota-based company actively processing wind turbine blades into products like fence posts and pallets. We’ll be meeting with them this spring to explore whether there’s an opportunity to bring that kind of innovation into our area.

This is part of our larger strategy to explore green industries and position Clark County as a forward-thinking, resourceful community.

🌟 Beautification & Community Projects

Our Commercial to Main Street initiative is gaining traction. We’re actively working on public enhancements like trees and benches and had a great conversation with the Clark Foundation and local Rotary about ways to bring even more vibrancy to the heart of town.

Community pride is built in the small details—so we’re excited to keep investing in these visible improvements that make our spaces more welcoming and enjoyable.

We’re building momentum—together. If you have ideas, want to get involved, or just want to learn more about what we’re working on, don’t hesitate to reach out. This year is all about collaboration and forward motion—and we’re just getting started.