Apr 23, 2026
(Shenandoah) — One of Iowa’s biggest cheerleaders says Shenandoah has a lot going for it now and in the future.
Debi Durham serves as director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and the Iowa Finance Authority. Durham along with IEDA Business Specialist Jim Thompson toured the community Wednesday to check out projects previously receiving grants from the Iowa Community Catalyst Program and projects in line for possible funding from the Charles E. Lakin Foundation’s Revitalize Southwest Iowa Initiative. Durham tells KMA News she was impressed by two of the facilities included in the tour.
“First of all, we got to go to the Mill, because we have that a community catalyst grant years ago,” said Durham. “Then, to see the upper floors, and what the big plans are for a kitchen and possibly housing on the very top floor. That was incredible. We went to see your hospital (Shenandoah Medical Center), and the new cancer center. I have to tell you, as an eight-year, God willing cancer survivor, it is an incredible place to receive treatment, and not have to go to places like Omaha to do that.”
Opened in 2024, the former Johnson Brothers Mill structure received a $100,000 Community Catalyst Grant for its renovation. Durham also met with Lucis Sheridan, the owner of the former Jay’s Drug Store, the city’s applicant for this year’s Community Catalyst program. She also visited the former Sac ‘N Save lot–the site of a proposed housing complex, and toured the Midwest Mental Health facility located inside the former Howard’s Clothing and Sporting Goods store. Durham says Shenandoah is blessed to have strong mental health services.
“I go to so many communities that would love to have the resources you have right here with your mental health,” she said.
She also received an update on plans for the Wabash Trace Nature Trail–a former Destination Grant recipient, and the proposed Shenandoah Fieldhouse project–a possible Vision Shenandoah funding recipient. Durham says Shenandoah’s unified effort on several fronts is a plus.
“I like it that you’re all pulling in the same direction,” said Durham. “It seems like you have a really engaged mayor, a great city administrator, your main street, your economic development groups in the area, and the businesses. We met everyone from private citizens to elected officials, and I think the thing is, you have a plan.”
Durham says community catalyst awards are expected to be announced this fall.
Provided by KMA: https://www.kmaland.com/news/ieda-head-takes-shenandoah-tour/article_aab6ff93-66a3-4e07-8096-40b82661b050.html
