Maryville receives high ranking for industrial development

Maryville and Nodaway County Economic Development (NCED) recently announced that Maryville is ranked 18th for industrial development among micropolitans out of 535 nationwide by Site Selection Magazine. This year’s designation follows up last year’s 10th-place ranking by Site Selection Magazine.

A micropolitan is a community with a population of at least 10,000 and no more than 50,000 and which serves as a regional hub for employment and commerce.  Rankings are based on the amount of qualifying industrial projects in a community, which include major capital investment, job creation and building purchases.

“Maryville’s success is directly attributable to the local labor force,” Steve Bratt, Kawasaki vice president, said. “Our growth has been contributed to the work ethic of the people in northwest Missouri and southwest Iowa. They are the back bone to our success. Great work ethic, hard-working, loyal and quality minded workforce.”

In addition, Maryville’s pro-business city leadership is instrumental in continued growth.

“Our city government is pro industry which makes it easier for us to get things done. NCED has been the go-to organization to help communicate industry needs and wants to the city, county and state,” Bratt said.

Over that last two years, Maryville and Nodaway County have seen about $140 million in public and private investment.  This year’s ranking of number 18 speaks to that positive economic momentum.

“The ranking from Site Selection Magazine is yet another indicator of the momentum that is building in this region. While the attraction of new companies is a goal, the continued reinvestment by existing industry is just as crucial for our long-term viability as a community,” Maryville City Manager Greg McDanel said. “Special recognition is deserved for our plant managers and their employees, along with numerous organizations providing continued industrial support such as Nodaway County Economic Development and Northwest Regional Council of Governments.”

NCED Executive Director Josh McKim said, “The closure of Energizer was a major hit to our community but over that last two and a half years our employers and community have fought to grow.  Our total employment is up roughly 400 since 2014.  Every community faces challenges and disappointments but the mark of great communities is how they respond. Maryville’s response to adversity has proven it is a strong and vibrant community.”