Two local companies were recognized at the recent Economic Development Sedalia-Pettis County “Works for You” awards banquet because of their continued leadership and support of Pettis County. There were more than 170 attendees at the banquet who heard their story, but I thought I would take this opportunity to share their contribution with the community.

The Economic Development Sedalia-Pettis County board and staff created the “Economic Development Works for You” awards ceremony in 2006 as an arm of the 2005 Strategic Plan. Utilizing and re-emphasizing this slogan, the award recognizes those contributing to the economic business development progress and success. This event is funded totally through private donations by Missouri business partners.

Through this event, we have the opportunity to personally thank individuals, corporations or organizations that in the most recent year went above and beyond to support, promote and assist in the Pettis County economic development efforts. We also extended a special thank you to the companies and individuals whose support and teamwork contribute to the economic business climate, its progress and success.

It gives us an additional opportunity to recognize and thank all of the Pettis County manufacturers and distributors for having their company here in Pettis County. With our global economy, a company can locate anywhere in the world and they have selected Pettis County. The thousands of people they employ would not have those jobs were those companies not here.

This year, we were honored to recognize two very strong partners and supporters of Pettis County Economic Development:  

• Ditzfeld Transfer was noted as a company that “quietly takes care of business.” They have been partners to Sedalia, to Pettis County and to Economic Development over the years. However, in the past six years, since the inception of the Economic Development Strategic Plan, that partnership has been stepped up in the economic development arena. This company assists with the manufacturers’ float in the Missouri State Fair Parade, with the tours of prospective companies and dignitaries to showcase the community and with the Sedalia Showcase during the Missouri State Fair. Ditzfeld Transfer also is a key supporter of the Manufacturers Milestone event in November, when manufacturers are honored for having a milestone anniversary of their company in Pettis County. During each event, this company is there to provide support and assistance.

Here’s one illustration of Ditzfeld Transfer’s commitment to our community. When EDSPC markets a location for prospects, the community must have available buildings. Having buildings that are currently occupied but can be made available is ideal. Ditzfeld Transfer relocated and vacated an entire building to provide space for the new WireCo Distribution Division so they could relocate to Sedalia from Chicago. They often make room available while companies build new facilities. When Duke Manufacturing relocated their entire plant to their new location, while in full operation for their customers, Ditzfeld partnered with them to make that happen.

During their award presentation, economic development stated, “Ditzfeld Transfer is a Sedalia anchor.”

• Kansas City Power & Light was recognized as a company that partners with the community and economic development in many areas. We must have a foundation and the base necessary to enable us to grow. On a corporate front, they are working to install the infrastructure needed for us to move forward with our existing companies as well as recruitment of new companies. KCP&L consistently assists with prospects who visit our county, and helps with our marketing and advertising on a local and regional level.