This year’s SMCC Board Retreat gave us the chance to reflect on our progress, revisit our guiding pillars, and align around what’s next. Thank you to everyone who brought ideas, energy, and vision to the table. The collaboration and shared commitment to Christian County’s future were evident throughout the day.

We’re grateful for the thoughtful dialogue and meaningful participation that helped shape the conversation. The ideas and insights shared will continue to inform our direction as we work to support growth and opportunity across the region

Special thanks to David Liss and Nixa Public Schools for helping facilitate the day, and to Ozark School District for generously providing the public space that hosted this important conversation.

Exciting momentum continues in Christian County. Recent highlights include a $29.5 million expansion by Capital Holding Group that brings new jobs and advanced infrastructure to Ozark, the groundbreaking of Children’s Smile Center’s $3.5 million clinic in Nixa to expand care for kids on Medicaid, and plans for a new 26-acre retail development set to become a regional destination. These projects reflect the power of collaboration and the shared vision driving our region forward.

Catch up on the full update in April's newsletter here.

Two commercial lots have officially been sold in the Christian County Government Plaza development near Highway 14 and 25th Street in Ozark. Riverpointe Dental will establish a multi-specialty practice on Lot 5, while B&M Real Estate Investments, LLC plans to develop an 80-room Holiday Inn Express & Suites on Lot 3—complete with a pool, common area, and meeting space.

The 39-acre site, initially purchased in 2021, will house future county operations and includes plans for public amenities like walking trails and an outdoor venue. Three prime commercial lots remain available. Read the original announcement here.

The City of Ozark has earned the 2025 Missouri Municipal League Innovation Award for Garrison Springs Community Forest. Recognized in the Large City category, the project stood out for its commitment to conservation, sustainable land use, and accessible public recreation.

Originally reopened in August 2024, Garrison Springs features ADA-accessible trails, a soft-surface path, and a viewing platform offering a close look at the natural springs. Future plans include a nature center focused on environmental education and community programming.

Learn more at myozark.info/Garrison-Springs.

SMCC Board Meeting

The next investor-only board meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 21st, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Nixa City Hall.

Be sure to mark your calendars. We look forward to seeing you there!

Investors, mark your calendars for our next First Tuesday meeting on June 2nd, 2025, at Nixa City Hall. Your presence and input are valued. To invite a guest, please contact SMCC.

Please be on the lookout for an upcoming update regarding a new location for our future events. The City of Nixa will soon begin renovations, so we’ll be shifting to a different venue. We’ll share details as soon as they’re finalized—thanks for your flexibility!

The Christian County Community Betterment Fund supports initiatives that drive growth, enhance local infrastructure, and improve quality of life in Christian County. Contributions help fund key projects, from workforce development to economic initiatives, ensuring a thriving future for our community. Donate today to make a lasting impact!

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Rachel Campbell represented SMCC as a panelist at the 2025 E3 Small Business Conference, joining Stephanie Callahan and Shana Mitchell to discuss strategies for attracting and retaining top talent.