By Marjie Ducey / Omaha World-Herald / Oct 13, 2019 College scholarships, the annual ball and its work in agriculture and communities throughout Nebraska and western Iowa have long been bedrocks of the Aksarben Foundation. But in the past year, the group has been working to address alarms sounded by Nebraska businesses. The state is in desperate need of highly qualified workers, and the philanthropic organization feels uniquely positioned to support solutions to that challenge. READ MORE

By Jerry Guenther / Norfolk Daily News / December 3, 2019 Norfolk is not Austin, Boston or San Jose — or other cities that attract young professionals. Among other things, young professionals want to live in places that are walkable, driveable and have a healthy art scene. They also want to see other young people. Instead, the vision that a 25-member committee made up mostly of Northeast Nebraskans has for Norfolk is to make it something better than it is today. READ MORE

By Cody Ronnfeldt / WJAG / Dec 3, 2019 NORFOLK - Retaining young people between the ages of 20 and 24 and continuing to redevelop downtown was the ultimate focus of a town hall in Norfolk Monday night. READ MORE

KETV 7 / Omaha / Dec 6, 2019 A former Nebraska state senator warns a small town's "brain drain" has reached critical levels. Mike Flood is leading a team of thinkers, business owners, and developers to help draw people back into northeast Nebraska and he's starting with Norfolk. READ MORE

On the edge of Madison County, just north of Norfolk, a new landmark has emerged, bringing significant changes to the local agricultural landscape.   The Norfolk Crush soybean processing plant, spread across 480 acres, began a soft launch of operations in mid-June with plans to scale into full production early this fall. This state-of-the-art facility is set to revolutionize the way Northeast Nebraska farmers market and process their soybeans.   Nick Bowdish, the driving force behind Norfolk Crush LLC, has long been a visionary in the agricultural sector. As president and CEO of N Bowdish Company LLC, he has been instrumental in developing projects that add value to agricultural products. Aligning perfectly with Gov. Jim Pillen’s directive to shift Nebraska from commodities-based to value-added agriculture, Norfolk Crush’s goals are poised to leverage Nebraska’s strengths in abundant land and water, alongside advancements in ag tech and research, to unlock new opportunities in the bioeconomy.   Construction on the $375 million plant began in spring 2022, and after many months of dedicated work, the facility is nearly fully operational. The plant boasts the capacity to crush 38.5 million bushels of soybeans annually, equating to 110,000 daily. This immense quantity not only increases the demand for local soybeans but also provides farmers with a quicker, more efficient way to process their crops.   “We are extremely excited to bring added value to the soybeans grown in Madison County and the surrounding area.  The additional demand for soybeans will be extremely beneficial to farmers, and the products we make will provide additional supply to food companies, livestock producers, and to renewable fuel facilities.  The team at Norfolk Crush is proud to be a part of this value chain,” said Norfolk Crush president and CEO Chad Spohn.   The new plant features two unloading pits each capable of handling 30,000 bushels per hour, significantly streamlining the process for regional farmers. This efficiency is a major improvement over previous options where farmers often faced delays. Once fully operational, the plant is expected to employ 55 people, ranging from grain merchandisers to lab technicians.   The plant’s impact extends beyond just local convenience.   It is set to produce 847,000 tons of soybean meal annually for livestock feed markets, 450 million pounds of crude soybean oil, and 77,000 tons of pelleted soybean hulls. These products are essential for various markets, including the rapidly growing renewable diesel industry. The oil produced is expected to play a crucial role in biodiesel production, underscoring the plant’s importance in sustainable energy.   The Norfolk Crush plant's economic impact is substantial, as outlined in a March 2022 Economic Impact Assessment performed by Melissa Trueblood, Ph.D. economist with the Nebraska Public Power District. According to the report, the plant will directly employ 55 full-time workers, but the ripple effect on the local economy is even more impressive.   When considering secondary employment in other sectors, the total employment impact for the Norfolk area is estimated to be approximately 120 jobs. This includes 55 direct jobs, plus 65 secondary jobs, which includes both indirect and induced positions. Furthermore, the direct employee compensation for the plant’s workforce is projected at $4 million. When adding indirect and induced impacts, the total annual employee compensation impact on the Norfolk area economy reaches approximately $8.5 million.   Norfolk Crush’s strategic location and advanced facilities mean it can serve areas as far northwest as O’Neill and into South Dakota, providing a vital local outlet for soybeans. The Norfolk Crush plant is the fourth soybean processing facility in Nebraska, joining others in Lincoln, Fremont, and Hastings.   The domestic demand for soybean oil, especially for biodiesel, has driven the establishment of these new facilities over the past few years. The plant’s capacity to unload railcars and store up to 540 railcars on-site further enhances its logistical capabilities, ensuring that processed products can be efficiently transported to markets.   Farmers interested in selling their soybeans to Norfolk Crush can call 402-370-4910 or visit www.norfolkcrush.com to make an appointment. The facility aims to buy as many local soybeans as possible, ensuring smooth operations and minimal wait times for farmers.   Looking ahead, Norfolk Crush is planning a grand opening event for spring 2025 to celebrate its full operational capacity and showcase the plant’s features. Local farmers and community members will have the opportunity to tour the plant and see firsthand the advanced technology that makes Norfolk Crush a cutting-edge facility.   As the plant continues to operate, it will significantly enhance the local agricultural economy, providing farmers with better market options and contributing to the growth and sustainability of the Norfolk area. The Norfolk Crush soybean processing plant stands as a testament to the region’s dedication to innovation, collaboration, and progress. Norfolk Now Magazine: Fall/Winter 2024-25 More Articles like this: https://norfolknow.org/magazine/

Along U.S. Highway 275 on the west side of Norfolk, a green "G" peeks over the top of the Veterans Affairs facility. That "G" belongs to METGreen Solutions, a company perfectly positioned given its strong connection to veterans.   Established in 2014, METGreen Solutions is a service-disabled, veteran-owned company specializing in IT solutions. The Norfolk facility houses the growing METGreen team and includes warehouse space essential for fulfilling pending contracts.   As a value-added reseller for the federal government, METGreen deals with both hardware and software solutions and offers services that accompany product sales, such as asset tagging, providing plug-and-play solutions for its clients.   The company sells everything from laptops, monitors, and PCs to networking equipment, software, and software services. One of its larger contracts is with the Department of Veterans Affairs for cloud services, enabling the department's clinics, hospitals, and corporate IT to expand and automate their users and clinics. On average, the company estimates it annually moves approximately 100,000 pieces of equipment.   In addition to product sales, METGreen Solutions offers services to minimize space, such as asset tagging, imaging, just-in-time delivery, and "green delivery," which reduces waste in product packaging. The company makes a special effort to understand each agency's needs and match them with the right products. Its team maintains technical certifications in such concentrations as cloud-based integration, network integration, and security infrastructure.   METGreen’s customers span the country, so in addition to its Norfolk headquarters and Omaha branch, it has a presence in Colorado, Washington, D.C., California, and North Carolina. These locations allow them to serve their clients more effectively and provide unmatched services quickly and efficiently. Their client base is comprised entirely of federal government divisions and maintains strong relationships with vendors like Dell, Cisco, Amazon, and ServiceNow.   Brian Moore, president and CEO of METGreen Solutions and an Army veteran, chose Norfolk for the company's headquarters because of the community's unmatched, committed workforce and small-town feel. Moore, a Wayne native, recognizes the value of these assets, having traveled extensively during his eight years of active military service.   He experienced firsthand the quality workforce the region has to offer. “I’ve worked in D.C.; I’ve worked in Colorado; I’ve worked in Texas; and I’ve worked in Florida, and all that experience just brings me back to the fact that the commitment and the work ethic that you get here in Norfolk. You can’t match that.”   During his time in the service, Moore provided technical resource assistance at the U.S. Strategic Command at Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue. As he progressed at Offutt, he moved from hands-on support to sales within the federal government. After leaving the military, Moore connected with Lacohn Anderson, with whom he had previously worked at another company offering similar services to the federal government.   Anderson, the company's director of sales, has played a pivotal role in assembling the local team.  MetGreen typically doesn't advertise its positions; instead, it handpicks candidates through its network of contacts. This included hiring Adam Kahloff who specializes in sales and Jill Sock who maintains positive working relationships with the company’s vendors.   With momentum building, METGreen Solutions is looking to the future with plans to expand operations, a testament to the company's growth trajectory. Across its locations, the company has 10 employees working in finance and accounting, contract and program management, and sales.   METGreen Solutions has seen remarkable growth, soaring from $5 million in 2018 to over $100 million today. This growth is not just a statistic but a reflection of its engagement with a growing number of clients seeking cutting-edge technology solutions. Moore said the company’s, ultimate goal is to “quickly outgrow the current building and either expand or build new.”   The company also gives back in significant ways, including donations to the Food Bank for the Heartland and sponsorships of various children’s activities like Express Soccer. Its heart is, of course, with the veterans, sponsoring a veterans golf tournament and even spending a very cold winter day decorating the Norfolk Veterans Home exterior windows during COVID-19.   Looking ahead, METGreen Solutions plans to continue to explore opportunities for expansion, bringing more jobs and opportunities to the Norfolk area. The future looks bright for METGreen Solutions, and its commitment to excellence ensures it will continue to make a positive impact on the community and the clients it serves.   METGreen Solutions stands as a testament to the power of veteran-owned businesses in driving economic growth and fostering innovation. Its journey of perseverance, dedication, and community support showcases the remarkable achievements that can be accomplished when a company remains true to its core values and harnesses the strengths of its local workforce.   As METGreen Solutions continues to grow, it will undoubtedly set a high standard for what veteran-owned enterprises can achieve. Norfolk Now Magazine: Fall/Winter 2024-25 More Articles like this: https://norfolknow.org/magazine/

In the heart of Norfolk, Sunset Plaza Mall has long stood as a pillar of local commerce and social activity. Since its opening in 1968, this community hub, where friends meet and walkers walk, has played a significant role in the community’s retail scene.   Now, with the grand opening of Kohl's, a renowned national retailer, Sunset Plaza Mall is set to redefine the shopping experience in Norfolk.   The anticipation in Norfolk had been building for months. Residents eagerly watched as the transformation of the department store space, which formerly housed Herbergers, unfolded. Kohl's, known for its diverse range of affordable and stylish clothing, home goods, and accessories, promised a fresh and dynamic addition to the mall. The ribbon cutting in April 2024 marked the opening of a new store and the beginning of a revitalized shopping destination.   Candice Alder, Economic Development Director for Norfolk Area Economic Development and the City of Norfolk said, "Bringing Kohl's to Norfolk has been a collaborative effort involving many stakeholders. From city officials to local business leaders, everyone recognized the positive impact this would have on our community."   Inside, Kohl's offers something for everyone. Fashion-forward teens peruse the latest trends, families can find quality clothing and accessories for their children, and homeowners can browse stylish home decor. Shoppers can shop the array of women's, men's, and children's clothing, alongside a diverse selection of home goods and accessories.   Additionally, the inclusion of a Sephora within Kohl's brought a wide variety of beauty products to the store, offering a one-stop shopping experience.   For many local residents, the arrival of Kohl's marked a significant milestone in the evolution of the Sunset Plaza Mall. The mall, which had faced challenges in recent years, now has a renewed sense of vitality and purpose.   Other stores within the mall will also feel the positive ripple effect. The increased foot traffic brought by Kohl's not only benefits the store itself but also drives business to other mall tenants, fostering a thriving retail environment. This synergistic effect is crucial for the continued growth and success of the Sunset Plaza Mall, ensuring it remains a vibrant and bustling hub for years to come.   The Sunset Plaza is expected to see several more enhancements, including the addition of a T.J. Maxx and revitalized public spaces both inside and outside the mall. These improvements aim to attract more tenants and restore the property to the thriving space it once was, further strengthening its role as a key retail destination in Norfolk.   The grand opening of Kohl's at the Sunset Plaza Mall marked a significant addition to Norfolk's retail landscape. Kohl's presence is expected to contribute to the city’s economic growth and provide new opportunities for residents and visitors for years to come. Norfolk Now Magazine: Fall/Winter 2024-25 More Articles like this: https://norfolknow.org/magazine/

The Mid-America Economic Development Council honored Norfolk with two prestigious awards at its annual Economic Development Awards ceremony, held December 4–6 in Columbus, Ohio. The North Fork Riverfront Development Project earned the Placemaking Award for Large Communities. This initiative transformed a three-mile stretch of riverfront near Norfolk’s downtown district into a vibrant, multipurpose community space. The project features seven engineered rapids, including one designed for river surfing, revitalized Johnson Park, upgraded a main corridor bridge, and renovated two pedestrian bridges—one being a historic train bridge. “It took the effort of many to bring the Riverfront Development project and Northeast Nebraska Growing Together initiative to life, advancing opportunities for all. We are honored by the awards from the Mid-America Economic Development Council and grateful for their acknowledgment of our work," said Candice Alder, Economic Development Director. The redevelopment has already catalyzed significant private investment, including a $25 million mixed-use project on adjacent land. Supported by local and state funding, grants, and strong community backing, the riverfront’s revitalization aligns with the Northeast Nebraska Growing Together workforce initiative. It provides an attractive amenity for both residents and visitors, enhancing Norfolk’s appeal as a place to live, work, and play. The Workforce & Talent Award recognized the innovative Northeast Nebraska Growing Together initiative, a collaborative program designed to attract, develop, and retain talent. This forward-thinking strategy leverages placemaking efforts, such as the downtown riverfront revitalization, to create community density and foster connections among young professionals. “I love getting the chance to share the story of our community. This award gave us a great platform to showcase all the efforts we’re putting into making Norfolk a place where young people can build their lives and careers. It’s also a perfect opportunity to highlight to potential new businesses looking to expand to our region that we’re ready for growth and innovation,” said Angie Stenger, Executive Director of Growing Together Northeast Nebraska, powered by Aksarben. “I’m so proud of what our community has accomplished with the Growing Together Workforce Initiative and the Riverfront Development Project. These awards celebrate our shared commitment to building a thriving workforce and vibrant public spaces, making Norfolk an even better place to live, work, and play. A big congratulations to everyone who helped make these achievements a reality,” said Mayor Shane Clausen. Read more articles like this: News - City of Norfolk, NE

In a report by the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce, it was revealed that Nebraska faces the challenge of being the third-highest state in the U.S. for brain drain, losing over 4,000 individuals with bachelor’s degrees or higher annually. This alarming trend occurs simultaneously with the state’s struggle to fill job vacancies across various industries.   Nebraska’s Chamber of Commerce officials have pinpointed affordable “workforce” housing and childcare as primary obstacles to job fulfillment and community growth statewide. Recognizing that factors like jobs, professional growth, amenities, affordable housing, and quality of life influence relocation decisions, there is a collective effort to address these concerns, particularly among the younger population.   Josie Schafer, director of UNO’s Center for Public Affairs Research, suggests that Nebraska can reverse the brain drain by aligning future job opportunities with an appealing lifestyle and community infrastructure for the younger generation.   In Norfolk, community collaborators are actively working together to counter the outmigration of youth. Their strategies focus on enhancing the quality of place, fostering job growth, developing new housing, and improving access to quality childcare   Placemaking: Creating Vibrant Spaces for Connection   Recognizing the importance of creating synergies, community collaborators are concentrating on the density of place to attract young people. This strategy fosters an environment where young individuals can regularly interact, leading to overall community benefits through improved amenities and small business development   The North Fork Whitewater Park is one such amenity that will officially open in 2024. The river portion of the project includes seven whitewater drop structures including Nebraska’s first river wave. Johnson Park, which lies adjacent to the river, will also see a complete renovation that includes a fountain with winter ice skating, new play features, an amphitheater, and an enhanced trail system. The $16 million project was collaboratively funded utilizing City funds for major infrastructure components and leveraging those dollars for a number of grants from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development and private foundations. The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District was an early investor in the project, jumpstarting the fundraising by providing more than $1 million toward the effort. Members of the community also came to the table in a big way bringing an additional $2 million in private donations from businesses and excited citizens.   Downtown Redevelopment: A Flourishing Hub of Innovation   The North Fork Whitewater Park has already resulted in an adjacent, private development project with an estimated $25 million investment. The mixed-use development project, initiated by the Geary family, will include a variety of housing options, some of which have already been built and are housing Wayne State College students, as well as future phases to include commercial buildings.   Additional areas targeted for redevelopment in the downtown over the next several years include the site overlooking the whitewater park located at First Street and Norfolk Avenue. The property was acquired by the Greater Norfolk Economic Development Foundation, and the group has been working to identify a developer that will maximize the potential of the site and work to bring together the assets of the downtown with the river. Community members will also see the complete renovation of the historic Kensington property into a 64-room boutique hotel, two medical facilities with plans for expansion, and a 30-unit apartment complex currently being constructed at Fifth Street and Phillip Avenue. The community will also see Northeast Community College establish a presence downtown as it builds an innovation hub between Seventh and Eighth Street on Norfolk Avenue.   The growing momentum, combined with supportive resources for entrepreneurs and the addition of art in the form of sculptures and murals, not only sets the stage for unprecedented opportunities in Northeast Nebraska but also enriches the sense of place for community members.   Opportunities for Job Growth: Nurturing Talent and Collaboration   Norfolk and Northeast Nebraska as a whole is setting the stage for employers to succeed by focusing on talent development while sustaining the needs of those workers as it relates to housing and childcare.   Through the Wayne State Career Scholars program, Norfolk has the opportunity to host students in their fourth year of study in the downtown district as they work for local companies. These students will graduate with a four-year degree and nearly a year of work experience in their respective programs of study. Employers will receive an opportunity to hire these students at the end of their internship   This unique program is new to Nebraska and was conceptualized through the Northeast Nebraska Growing Together initiative. Through the forward-thinking efforts of WSC leadership and professors, a curriculum was developed to provide students intensive learning during the first three years of study and allow them to engage directly with businesses in our area. By 2025, Norfolk will welcome 75 new WSC students to the community every year.   This puts Norfolk and Northeast Nebraska in a unique position. The region has ready and willing talent being positioned to help companies grow and reach their potential.   New Housing Development: A Boom in Norfolk’s Housing Sector   Norfolk has also seen incredible growth in the housing sector over the past six years. From 2017 through 2023, the community saw 1,043 new housing units constructed. This averages to 174 new units per year. The prior 10 years saw a total of 484 new units built at an average of 48 units per year.   The unbelievable growth in the housing market has been due to a number of factors including the use of tools like tax increment financing and state programming, as well as a Mayor- and City Council- focused approach to encouraging new ideas and a welcoming attitude toward those wanting to do business in Norfolk.   Childcare Initiatives: Supporting Families and Fostering Community   Another critical piece of the puzzle in encouraging young people to stay and raise their families in Northeast Nebraska is by ensuring there is access to quality, affordable childcare. On average, families in the Norfolk area can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $250 per child per week. This adds up fast, especially for families with multiple children when costs for childcare begin outweighing mortgage payments.   The issues in childcare are multi-faceted and will not be easily overcome. In addition to high costs for services for parents, childcare workers often receive low wages and minimal benefits, such as access to health insurance and retirement savings. Add in burnout due to the lack of available workers and the stress of caring for children and one sees how these elements have a compounding effect. Norfolk Now Magazine: Spring Summer 2024 More Articles like this: https://norfolknow.org/magazine/