About UCDA
The organization originated with the Creston Development Company (CDC) which was founded in the 1950's. The CDC helped bring about the expansion of several industries in Creston. Many of our existing industries accredit their start or expansion to the efforts of this group. The members of this group sensed a need for stronger countywide efforts and secured UNI's Institute of Decision Making to help organize the planning and development process. The result of this process is Union County Development Association (UCDA). The focus of this organization expanded from new industry recruitment to business and industry retention, retail recruitment and retention, housing initiatives and tourism.
UCDA is a non-profit [501(c)6] developmental association which has served Union County since 1997. Funding for this organization comes from both public and private funding. The Public Funding Council consists of The City of Afton, City of Creston and The Union County Board of Supervisors (18% of the budget). Program revenue accounts for 9% of the funding, revenue generating assets account for 54% of the budget and 3% is made of grants, interest and other income. Lastly, approximately 18% is leveraged by Private Investors. This category consists of individuals or businesses that are eager to support the growth and development of Union County.
We are so glad you are here!
Whether you are looking to start or expand your business, get more involved in our community, or call Union County home, we are here to help connect you to the people and resources you need to make your dreams a reality. Meet the team!
Board of Trustees
UCDA relies on engaged board members for continued success of the organization. Board members serve on one of the four committees that have been identified as important factors for economic and community development. These four categories rely on each other for success. For instance, if you want to encourage a start up business or attract quality workforce, you need attainable housing, attractions and entertainment to help make it easy for individuals to CHOOSE UC! We are passionate and committed to work with these areas of focus to make Union County the obvious choice for individuals at all stages of life.
If you would like to be more involved in the development of UC, consider joining our board!
2024 Board of Trustees
Chad Rieck, President, KSIB Radio
Devon Tyler-Leith, Vice President, Tyler Insurance Services
Paul Fuller, Vice President, PCSB Bank
Matt McCutchan, Co-Treasurer, Greater Regional Health
Dan Waigand, Co-Treasurer, First National Bank
Francine Ide, Secretary, Ide Farms
Kevin Stewart, Past President, Iowa State Savings Bank
Melissa Driskell, Premier Builders
Scott Coen, Stalker Auto Group
Jean Weisshaar, Create Creston
Kiki Scarberry, Our Town Realty
Jamie Travis, Hometown Insurance & Realty
Gabe Carroll, Carroll Family Chiropractic
Sam Baird, Willets, Baird & Co, PLC
Public Funding Members
Waylon Clayton, Mayor, City of Creston
Rick Friday, Union County Supervisor
Education Partners
Tim Kuehl, East Union Community School District
Deron Stender, Creston Community School District
Ex-Officio Members
Austin Smith, Garden & Associates, LTD
Wayne Hanson, RE Lewis Refrigeration
David Marroquin, RE Lewis Refrigeration
MaKenzi Vonk, Reflections Beauty
Marion James, James Law Office
Maggie McGehee, City of Cromwell
Wayne Pantini, Southwestern Community College
Investors
Investing in UCDA is investing in Union County's future. Our investors pledge to UCDA to fund the ability to implement our three year vision plan.
It is with sincere appreciation that we take a moment to highlight the businesses and organizations that support our efforts, our goals and our vision for community development. Because of this support, we anticipate another three years of progress and enhanced partnerships.
Community Partner
Creston Chamber of Commerce
Public Partner
The City of Creston
The Union County Board of Supervisors
Afton, Arispe, Cromwell, Lorimor & Thayer