In this episode of Kankakee Valley Community Happenings on 92.7 WVLI, host Denny Case speaks with Angela Morrey from the Economic Alliance of Kankakee County. While economic development is often associated strictly with buildings, land, and corporate recruitment, Angela discusses why the foundation of sustainable community growth relies on relationship building, communication, and collaboration across local leaders, utilities, and education partners.
The conversation covers the long-term nature of regional development projects, bipartisan cooperation with local officials such as Representative Jackie Haas and Senator Patrick Joyce, and recent data showing Kankakee County’s cost of living tracking at just under 90 percent. In addition, Angela shares how local businesses and prospective employers can connect with regional resources, site selection data, and workforce partners.
Key Topics Covered:
- The human element of economic development and why relationship building remains critical in the era of automation.
- Managing multi-year economic projects and sustaining communication among municipal, utility, and education stakeholders.
- Bipartisan collaboration in regional advocacy and project support.
- New cost-of-living metrics for Kankakee County and their impact on residents and expanding companies.
- Contact channels and tools available via kankakeecountyed.org and (815) 935-1177.
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