Argonia Community Development 04/10/08

History Argonia –Population = 530 –South Central Kansas –K-12 school –Along highway 160 Previous community activities –Swimming pool—2002 –River park and trail & RV park to 2004

Argonia Development Formed in 2003 as an LLC Made up of 4 Argonia High School Alumni Goal: –To help the community grow and prosper and not become a “ghost town” –To help build the community to ensure the school system is viable –Read more about us at:

A-Mart Began in 2003 Leased to local grocery operator Access to 160 Took over lease in 2006 Gross sales good –Profit marginal

Housing Development Purchased 57 acres in 2005 Replatted and zoned Asked city to kick in utilities Free lots—1 acre or more 95% property tax abatement---5 years Began first house in December 2006 –Learned to get good contractor 4 houses to date

How to organize Partners with common goal Partners must be willing to loose initial investment There will be criticism Takes time No regrets –Pride within Major highway good attribute Involve community in decisions –Survey & meetings

Question and Answer