Local Business Leaders Named to the Executive Committee of the Winfield Advocacy Coalition to Champion Community Growth
A collective group of advocates from Cowley County, including community leaders, business owners, property owners, and non-profit directors has established the Winfield Advocacy Coalition (WAC). Driven by a common vision of nurturing a flourishing business community while preserving Winfield's small-town charm, WAC is built on the fundamental principles of empowering individuals, advancing progress, and fostering local and visitor community engagement.
Community meetings are open to all and are scheduled for the second Tuesday of each month at Converge Co-Working at 8:30 am or via Zoom. Additionally, the group is preparing to host its inaugural economic growth seminar on October 25th and will release details soon.
The main objectives of the WAC center on promoting communication and collaboration among business leaders, property owners, local government, civic groups, and the non-profit community to encourage sustainable growth in Winfield. This involves providing support to existing businesses, including small enterprises and established industries, nurturing new entrepreneurs, and acknowledging the crucial role of businesses in strengthening the local economy. Additionally, the group emphasizes the importance of promoting tourism to the larger region, shopping locally, and increasing visitor spending to boost the overall economic health of the community.
While the group started meeting in November of 2023, the WAC organizational efforts have expanded rapidly over the summer with the election of a steering committee that has drafted bylaws, articles of incorporation, and is currently in the process of applying for 501c nonprofit status to enhance their capacity to seek and distribute grants.
The WAC Executive Committee includes the following local leaders.
· Executive Committee Chair: Andrea Ball
· Secretary/Treasurer: Heidi Potucek
· Communications Chair: Jennifer Valentine
· Advocacy Chair: Tara Battreal
· Economic Growth Chair: Michael Kelley
· At Large Member: Heather James
· At Large Member: Irene Allen
· Non-Profit Liaison: Tabitha Hogan
“The Winfield Advocacy Coalition is committed to driving positive change through advocacy, education, and communication efforts, including engaging local government and civic groups through educational outreach, promoting business-friendly policies, supporting downtown renovation, and advocating for tax incentives to foster business expansion and attract new investments,” Andrea Ball, WAC Chair explained.
“Several members of our executive committee are natives of the area, who chose to return after living elsewhere to invest in homes and commercial properties, and open businesses while raising families in Winfield. Because of this commitment to our roots, we intend to highlight Winfield’s unique heritage, while embracing the progress and growth that we know is possible to help our hometown thrive,” she added.
The Winfield Community Advocacy Group welcomes the participation and support of community members, local businesses, and all those who share its vision for a vibrant and prosperous Winfield. Interested parties are invited to sign up by visiting the website, WinfieldAdvocacyCoaltion.org or by following the group on Facebook.
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