April 2026 Newsletter

View in browser

Advancing GROWTH in Carroll County


This spring, CCEDC continues to build on important work across Carroll County. Strategic plan priorities are moving forward, regional planning tied to the SK hynix opportunity is underway, and READI 2.0 initiatives continue to support long-term growth.


Our Annual Luncheon brought together partners and community leaders for a celebration of progress, featuring Eric Sheiss of Indiana Packers Corporation as guest speaker. The event also included special recognition of Jake Adams for his service and impact on Carroll County.


Additional momentum continues across the county, including the anticipated August opening of the Delphi childcare facility, the upcoming Leadership Carroll County application period beginning in May for the September class, and continued promotion of industrial land available for sale.


We are also pleased to recognize the Town of Flora as our Community Spotlight for this issue, celebrating its ongoing commitment to community growth and improvement.

Annual Luncheon Highlights

CCEDC recently hosted its Annual Luncheon, bringing together community leaders, partners, and stakeholders to celebrate progress and look ahead.


We were honored to welcome Eric Sheiss, President of Indiana Packers Corporation, as our guest speaker. His remarks highlighted the company’s continued investment in Carroll County and the importance of strong partnerships in supporting local growth and opportunity.



A special highlight of the luncheon was the recognition of Jake Adams for his service and contributions to Carroll County. His leadership, commitment, and support of the community have made a lasting impact, and we were proud to honor him during this year’s event.

PRESS RELEASE | PHOTOS

The Carroll County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) has released its 2026 Strategic Plan Update, outlining key priorities to strengthen the local economy, support workforce development, and enhance quality of life across Carroll County.

Regional Initiatives

Carroll County continues to stay involved in regional initiatives that support quality of place, housing, talent attraction, and economic development.


These efforts are critical to ensuring Carroll County remains competitive and prepared for future opportunities while strengthening our communities today.


Home - Greater Lafayette Region GLRR Arts Plan GLRR Development Plan

Regional Planning for SK hynix Opportunity


CCEDC has been actively engaged in regional planning efforts connected to the SK hynix investment in West Lafayette.


Working alongside county and regional partners, this effort is helping identify opportunities related to housing, workforce development, transportation, infrastructure, and site readiness that could position Carroll County to benefit from future growth in the regional semiconductor ecosystem.

See Carroll County Plan


DCSC to Launch ~ Little Oracles Childcare Center

Delphi Community School Corporation will open the Little Oracles Childcare Center in Fall 2026 at Delphi Community Elementary, serving children from birth to age three.



The center will offer 52 total childcare spots across five classrooms, helping address a critical need for affordable, high-quality childcare in Carroll County—supporting working families and strengthening the local workforce.


“This is more than a childcare center—it’s an investment in our community,” said Superintendent Dr. Pamela Moore.



Expanding childcare access remains one of Carroll County’s key priorities, and this project represents an important step forward for local families, employers, and workforce support.

~Attention Business Owners~

Leaders from Carroll Consolidated School Corp, Delphi Community School Corporation, and Indian Trails Career Cooperative met with local business owners to talk about Career & Technical Education (CTE) and the new diploma requirements coming for the Class of 2029.


If you’re a BUSINESS OWNER who would like to learn more about offering work‑based learning opportunities or supporting CTE programs, please reach out directly to DCSC 765-564-2100 or CCSC 574-967-4113.



Together, we’re building pathways that benefit students, employers, and the future of Carroll County.

Leadership Carroll County Returning this Fall



Leadership Carroll County (LCC) is gearing up for a new cohort beginning this September, and we’re excited to welcome the next group of emerging leaders from across the county.


This dynamic program runs from September through May and is designed to develop informed, engaged leaders through hands-on learning experiences focused on community issues, leadership skills, and local connections.


Applications will open in May. Whether you’re looking to grow professionally, expand your network, or get more involved in the community, LCC offers a valuable and rewarding experience.


We are also seeking Sponsors to help keep the program accessible and impactful. Local business support plays a key role in investing in the future of Carroll County leadership.



Applications for the 2026–2027 class

Strengthening Carroll County’s Workforce Through Partnership


CCEDC joined Governor Braun, Mayor Yates, and Delphi Schools Superintendent Dr. Moore at Delphi Body Works for a community‑driven discussion on our future workforce.



Strong partnerships between schools, employers, and local leadership are essential as we work together to strengthen workforce development and education–industry alignment in Carroll County.


We’re grateful for the collaboration happening across our community—these connections expand opportunities for students, employers, and local industry. PRESS RELEASE

Funding & Training for Your Business



The Carroll County Chamber of Commerce offers resources to help you grow:


Low-Interest Loans - Thanks to USDA funding, small businesses in Carroll County can apply for low-interest loans.

  • Start-ups should complete the BizExcel course and submit a business plan.
  • Existing businesses email Amy Beechy or call 574-709-7955.



Training Funds Grant - money is available for consulting, market research, service training, and more—no repayment required.

BizExcel Course - Offered each Spring and Fall, this hands-on course helps you build a business plan and sharpen your skills.

Free Counseling - Meet one-on-one with expert advisors.

New Homes in Delphi, IN


Check out BOWEN ESTATES SUBDIVISION


These modern builds bring much-needed housing options to Carroll County, thanks to the City of Delphi, Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s READI initiative and Majestic Homes of Lafayette!


The Carroll County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) has made housing development a top priority—recognizing that quality, attainable homes are key to attracting and retaining a strong workforce.


New housing like this helps ensure local employers can recruit and retain talent—supporting Carroll County’s long-term economic growth.


Featured Listings Include:

▪️228 W. Vine Street ~1,720 sq ft, 3 beds, 2 baths.

▪️ 232 W. Vine Street ~2,329 sq ft, 3-4 beds, 2.5 baths.

PROPERTY FOR SALE

25+ ACRES AVAILABLE 



Hoosier Heartland Industrial Park is just minutes from the Hoosier Heartland Highway; this location is truly at the “heart” of industry in the Midwest. The HHIP features two CONTIGUOUS 10-acre lots and one 5-acre lot, a total of 25 acres of Shovel Ready buildable land in DELPHI, IN.

SHELL BUILDING

239 N Heartland, Delphi, IN



FOR SALE or LEASE- This 49,496 SF stand-alone shell building is available for sale or lease in the Hoosier Heartland Industrial Park. Located on a beautiful 10-acre site, the expandable precast concrete facility offers 32' clear height and is designed to accommodate a wide range of industrial or advanced manufacturing uses.

RAIL-SERVED

INDUSTRIAL LAND


Two primary rail-served locations in Carroll County are the Project 218 Industrial Area and JNT Farms Industrial Site.


These sites offer rail access through short-line railroads and are strategically located near major highways, including the new Hoosier Heartland Corridor and I-65.

Community Spotlight🔦


Welcome to Flora, IN!


The Town of Flora a vibrant and welcoming community in Carroll County—where strong schools, active organizations, and local pride create a high quality of life.


Flora is home to the Carroll Consolidated School Corporation and features a well-utilized community park with the 4-H Fairgrounds, ball fields, playgrounds, and year-round gathering spaces.


The Carroll County Community Center serves as a hub for recreation and programming, while the Children’s Garden Early Learning Center provides quality childcare from birth to 6 years old.


Flora’s strong sense of community is reflected in its local businesses, restaurants, churches, senior housing, and active civic organizations—including the Flora Community Club, which promotes events, supports downtown revitalization, and fosters community engagement. Resources like the Flora-Monroe Township Public Library further support residents year-round.


With a strong foundation and continued investment in quality of life, Flora remains a place where residents are proud to live, work, and grow.


New Growth in Flora

The Town of Flora has reached a major milestone with the LIFTING of its long-standing SEWER BAN—opening the door for new growth and development.


This progress comes at a critical time as Carroll County sees increasing demand for housing and services. One of the first projects moving forward is Carriage Estates Phase III, featuring 27 new homes through a partnership between the Carroll County Economic Development Corporation, the Town of Flora, and a READI 2.0 initiative.


Thanks to strong collaboration among local leaders, utility partners, and state agencies, Flora is now ready to support future growth and continue building on its strong sense of community.

Property for Lease

PRIME COMMERICAL Space Available



Suite 11 at the Sycamore Industrial Park, in Flora, IN, is available. 12,123 SF includes: Store, Office, Restroom, Breakroom and Warehouse Facility.


Contact Denny at 574-967-4103.

Did You Know?

Did you know: The Purdue Extension - Carroll Co. provides citizens with a link to Purdue research. In the areas of: 4-H and Youth Development; Health and Human Sciences; and Agriculture & Natural Resources.


CONTACT

Purdue Carroll County Extension

carrollces@purdue.edu

102 N 4th Street, Ste B

Flora, IN 46929

(574) 967-3538

Stay Informed ~ Get Engaged ~ Make a Difference



Stay up to date on what’s happening across Carroll County. Your local government websites are a great place to find meeting information, community updates, resources, and more.



Stay Connected to Public Meetings



Explore, stay engaged, and be part of what’s happening in Carroll County

Carroll County Economic Development

ABOUT US



The Carroll County Economic Development Corporation is a private, not-for-profit, corporation leading the county's economic development strategy to add more jobs and diversify the local economy while enhancing the area's unique natural and cultural environments. The EDC is a catalyst for creating a vibrant economy that is sustainable and globally competitive.



OUR MISSION


The Carroll County Economic Development Corporation will be a pro-active leader in a unified pursuit to provide a dynamic and prosperous economy for the citizens and employers of Carroll County.

Carroll County

by the Numbers

Economy Overview



20,846

Total Population

Grew by 515 over 5 years

(2020-2025)


3.3%

Unemployment Rate

February 2026


$64, 003

Median Household Income (2023)



10,858

Local Labor Force


90%

With High School Degree+

Source: Indiana Stats

Hoosiers by the Numbers


CCEDC Welcomes New Board Members


Ross Larimore



The CCEDC is excited to welcome Ross Larimore as our newest board member, representing the Town of Camden.


Ross is a Purdue University graduate, earning his B.S. in Consumer Family Sciences in 2008. He began his career with School Datebooks, where he spent a decade in sales before joining US Aggregates as a Sales Manager in 2018.


When he's not working, Ross enjoys spending quality time with his wife Sarah and their three

children. You can often find Ross outdoors hunting, fishing, or cheering on Purdue.                

Seth Eldridge



The Carroll County Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) is pleased to welcome Seth Eldridge, who was appointed to the Board of Directors as a Carroll County representative.


A lifelong county resident and partner at Fisher & Associates in Flora, Seth joined the firm in 2018 and became a partner in 2023. He holds degrees in Accounting and Finance from Anderson University and earned his CPA in 2020.


A 2014 Carroll High School graduate, he also serves as varsity baseball coach at Carroll Jr.-Sr. High School.


CCEDC Board Members, Staff & Corporate Partners



We’re proud to share the leaders and partners who help guide economic growth, collaboration, and opportunity across Carroll County.



Front Row:  Bret Rinehart, Cathy Raderstorf, Laurie Browser, Ken Walton, Anita Werling, Dr. Pamela Moore, Miriam Robeson, Julia Leahy, and Shannon Telfer

Back Row:  James Wells, Dr. Gregory Norman, Mike Williams, Joe Moss, Seth Eldridge, Kendal Ross, Scot Ortman, Jack Begley, Mayor Kamron Yates, and Keith Schultz

Not in Photo:  Jay Bordner, Ross Larimore, Superintendent Keith Thackery, and Karen McLean

CCEDC Executive Committee

VP - Dr. Gregory Norman, P - Anita Werling, T - Laurie Brower, Executive Director - James Wells, Past President - Bret Rinehart, CCEDC Counsel - Miriam Robeson, S - Julia Leahy

FROM THE DIRECTOR'S DESK



As we move through 2026, our focus is on turning momentum into meaningful execution. Carroll County is well-positioned for continued growth, and we are prioritizing efforts that advance housing, strengthen our workforce, and support business investment.


We are also focused on preparing for what’s next, ensuring our sites, infrastructure, and partnerships are aligned to capture new opportunities as they emerge.


Continued collaboration across our communities and regional partners remains essential to this work and to keeping Carroll County competitive.


There is real opportunity ahead, and we are committed to building on the progress already underway.


— James L. Wells Executive Director, Carroll County EDC

CONTACT US ~

James Wells

Executive Director

317-385-9973

director@carrollcountyedc.com

Shannon Telfer

Office Manager

765-564-2060 stelfer@carrollcountyedc.com



Stakeholders and Partners

Facebook      Linkedin