Webster City proudly hosted the Governor’s Empower Rural Iowa (ERI) Initiative and the Iowa Rural Development Council (IRDC) for their joint winter meeting on December 3 at Briggs Woods Conference Center, bringing statewide leaders together to focus on strengthening rural communities.
Held twice each year, the ERI and IRDC joint meeting brings together government officials, community leaders, and development partners to discuss progress, share initiatives, and explore opportunities across rural Iowa. The daylong event in Webster City included an ERI meeting, lunch, the IRDC business session, and a guided community tour.
Webster City was honored to highlight the strong partnerships that continue to fuel growth and momentum within the region. Representatives from Hamilton County, the Webster City Community School District, the City of Webster City, the Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce, and local healthcare organizations shared updates on collaborative efforts that are positively shaping the community’s future.
A key feature of the day was a community tour showcasing local businesses that have directly benefited from Empower Rural Iowa grant programs. Attendees visited Wildcat Distilling Co., La Perla Jarocha, and The Elks Building, where business owners and project leaders shared how the grants have supported expansion, revitalization, and new opportunities in the community.
“We are always proud to highlight the progress being made in Webster City,” said Robin Streigle of the Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce. “The Empower Rural Iowa program has helped accelerate the strong partnerships developing across our city and county, and we’re grateful for the chance to share these success stories with statewide leaders.”
The Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce extends sincere thanks to Empower Rural Iowa, the Iowa Rural Development Council, and all local partners who contributed to a successful and inspiring event.