Watonga Thrives

The Mission

The Possibilities

Working in the service of our local Chamber and City leaders, we want to actively participate in the development and implementation of a go-forward economic development strategic plan. We are THRILLED to see the launch of the Watonga Economic Development Authority (WEDA) - watch this space and connect with city leadership!

Some Background:

* Check out the 2018 Watonga Gap Analysis prepared by Ron Drake

* OSU Extension: https://extension.okstate.edu/fact-sheets/strategic-planning-for-economic-development-in-rural-areas-and-small-towns-of-oklahoma.html

The Possibilities

STABILIZE our local economy

ATTRACT new businesses

LEAD the vision for Watonga's future

LOWER unemployment

LOWER poverty rates

LOWER vacancy rates

LOWER crime rate

HIGHER standard of living

DIVERSE economy

Why does this matter? Read: Economic Diversity authored by Chmura

ACTIVE community

INVITING public attractions

REGIONAL leadership

What Watonga Needs

The Ask (What WATONGA NeedS)

Watonga needs active engagement by our citizens. There are many ways to contribute; here are just a few:

* listen to "Watonga City Manager Minute Monday" hosted by Teresa France: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/teresa-france/episodes/May-22nd-Watonga-Manager-Minute-Monday-e24h856

* learn about plans for local and regional educational programs

Watonga Public Schools Board Members: https://www.watongapublicschools.com/541364_3
Watonga Public Schools Meeting Agendas and Minutes: https://meeting.assemblemeetings.com/Public/Organization/358
Chisholm Trail Technology Center (CTTS) Board Members, Meeting Minutes: https://www.cttc.edu/313639_2

* attend city meetings and learn about the short-term challenges and longer-term priorities:

* consider membership in these local, county, and regional organizations:

Watonga Public Library: https://www.watongaok.gov/library
Kiwanis International: https://www.kiwanis.org/clubs/find-a-club?location=73772
Watonga Lions Club: https://www.facebook.com/watongalions/
Northwest Oklahoma Alliance: https://nwoka.com/