Hamilton County Growth Partnership

10/07/2026

We’re pleased to share a spotlight on our very own Garren Zanker of Jewell Market, recognized in this year’s Iowa Grocer Hall of Fame issue!

Garren is a valued member of the Hamilton County Growth Partnership, and we’re grateful for the time and dedication he gives to supporting our region.

Scroll through the issue at the link below!
https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/read/71300957/2026-hall-of-fame-issue

09/30/2026

Hear from the Executive Director of Hamilton County Growth Partnership, Ottie Maxey, as he reflects on a great September!

He shares, “A highlight this month was the Iowa Economic Development Authority awarding the City of Jewell a $675,000 grant to help fund a new $2.6 million aquatic center. This is a significant investment in our community and a great example of what can happen when local leadership and state partners work together.”

Congratulations to the City of Jewell on this exciting milestone! We’re grateful for the continued investment and collaboration that strengthen our communities and create new opportunities throughout Hamilton County.

09/16/2026

09/11/2026

Congratulations to Van Diest Supply Company on celebrating 70 years! We are so grateful to have such a strong company in our region that values growth, success and serving Iowa. Here’s to many more years ahead!

09/09/2026

The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) recently announced its 2026 Workforce Housing Tax Credit awards, including two projects in Webster City.

The projects were awarded a combined $1.126 million to support the creation of 109 new housing units.

These investments will help expand housing options for residents and workers while supporting continued growth in Webster City.

Read the full announcement: https://amesalliance.com/media-releases/eight-housing-projects-awarded-workforce-housing-tax-credits-in-the-ames-region-2/

09/02/2026

The Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce is hiring a Community and Member Services Coordinator, a part-time support position. If you or someone you know would be a great candidate, check out more details on LinkedIn and apply today. Reach out to Executive Director Taylor Nokes with any questions ([email protected]).
https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/view/4460613959/

09/02/2026

Hamilton County continues to see a decline in unemployment, with rates down from a year ago. The latest numbers from July 2026 indicate a 2.6% unemployment rate.

08/31/2026

Hear from the Executive Director of Hamilton County Growth Partnership, Ottie Maxey, as he reflects on a productive and impactful August!

He shares, “A highlight this month was our State of Education event, bringing together more than 40 business and community leaders for an important conversation about the future of education and workforce development in Hamilton County. We’re grateful to Dr. Stacy Mentzer, Matt Berninghaus, and Heather Holm for sharing their perspectives and vision for preparing our students for success.”

Thank you to everyone who continues to invest in strong schools, a skilled workforce, and collaboration between education and business. Together, we’re creating opportunities and building a stronger future for Hamilton County.

08/28/2026

Thank you to everyone who joined us yesterday for the Hamilton County Growth Partnership’s 2026 State of Education event. We appreciate our panelists, Matt Berninghaus, Heather Holm, and Dr. Stacy Mentzer for sharing their insights and perspectives on education in our region. Thank you to all who participated in this important conversation and helped make the event a success!

08/25/2026

Last Monday, several of our board members and area leaders hit the course for the annual Iowa Area Development Group Golf Invitational!

We’re grateful for opportunities like these to connect with fellow leaders and continue strengthening our regional partnerships.

Thanks to IADG for a great day on the course!