County 58: Jay

Jay County was my third and last Hoosier Crossroads Tour stop of the day. While driving to Portland, I was reminded of a term my staff and I use when we are on the road all day long, “survival.” You just never know what’s going to happen to slow you down while on the road. It is typical to experience bad weather, car accidents, and road construction.



I arrived in Portland to meet with local economic development officials at the Community Resource Center. Once we arrived, I was immediately impressed by the level of organization and detail that went into the preparation of this meeting. My friends John Coldren, Representative Bill Davis, and Economic Development Director Bill Bradley met me by the door. However, once inside I was welcomed by 20 local leaders each who play a role in developing opportunities to grow the local economy.



Lt. Governor Skillman talks to community leaders during
an economic development meeting in Jay County.



Each person, from the mayor to the hospital CEO to a farmer, delivered a 1-2 minute update using a PowerPoint presentation.  This community has had a strategic community and economic plan for almost 30 years. They continue to make improvements, and compete for state grants. Recently, the town of Redkey received wastewater upgrades. But they are also continuing to explore additional opportunities for economic development, including wind turbine energy development.

There is a lot to be proud of in Jay County, thanks to local leaders who know how to work together to accomplish the county’s goals. Days on the road can be hectic, but it is all worth it to be able to work with local leaders to help move our state forward.