Action Committees
Tri-State Development is evolving the way we organize our regional work. After several years of operating through five broad taskforces, we are now moving to three Action Committees. This transition is designed to sharpen our focus, align efforts across our 42-county region, and ensure that the time our members invest translates into visible progress.
Unlike traditional taskforces, which often centered on open-ended discussion, Action Committees are built around clear goals, measurable objectives, and shared accountability. Each committee is structured to:
- Define regional priorities within its focus area, informed by data and community feedback.
- Develop concrete action steps and timelines that can be measured.
- Strengthen collaboration by bringing together voices from across Missouri, Illinois, and Iowa.
- Deliver tangible outcomes that support the long-term vitality of rural and small-town communities in our region.
This new structure reflects what our stakeholders have asked for: more opportunities to turn ideas into action. Whether you are an economic developer, business leader, or community advocate, participation in an Action Committee means your contribution will directly influence strategies, projects, and policies shaping the Tri-State region.
Each committee meets monthly, and all interested participants are welcome. If you'd like to get involved please reach our to Sean Freeman, sfreeman@culver.edu, or Sue Goulder, sgoulder@culver.edu, for more information and to join a committee.
Policy & advocacy Committee
The Policy & Advocacy Committee brings together regional stakeholders to explore policy issues that shape economic growth across the Tri-State area. Committee member examine topics such as workforce development, broadband access, infrastructure investment, healthcare, and education - areas critical to the strength of our communities.
The committee's role is to educate and inform by identifying shared regional priorities, providing research and analysis, and creating resources that help members understand complex policy issues. The group also seeks to create opportunities for dialogue with state and federal leaders on rural challenges and solutions. In doing so, the committee helps ensure community leaders and organizations have the knowledge they need to engage confidently in policy conversations that affect the future of the Tri-State region.
Upcoming Meetings
October 2, 2025
November 6, 2025
December 4, 2025
January 8, 2026
February 5, 2026
March 5, 2026
River, Road, & rail committee
The River, Road, Rail committee is dedicated to advancing the Tri-State region's most important transportation priorities. By bringing together local insights from across our 42 counties, the committee works to create clear, data-driven, and consistent messaging that underscores the regional impact of roads, river, and rail projects.
Through strategic communication and collaborative discussions with transportation partners, the group highlights shared priorities and provides stakeholders with the data, insights, and messaging pieces they need to confidently communicate the value of these projects in their communities and beyond.
Upcoming Meetings
October 8, 2025
November 12, 2025
December 10, 2025
January 14, 2026
February 11, 2026
March 11, 2026
Rural Retention & Attraction Committee
Attracting and retaining people and businesses is at the heart of rural vitality. The Rural Retention & Attraction Committee works to strengthen the Tri-State region by focusing on the factors that influence where people choose to stay, return, or relocate.
The committee is developing a focused plan to explore strategies for retaining young talent, supporting homegrown entrepreneurship, and marketing the Tri-State region. As part of this work, the group will shape a clear regional message and share adaptable data and insights that communities can use in their own outreach. Together, these efforts create a coordinated approach to growing and sustaining the Tri-State region.
Upcoming Meetings
October 21, 2025
November 18, 2025
December 16, 2025
January 20, 2026
February 17, 2026
March 17, 2026
Stakeholder Gatherings
Tri-State Development is pleased to announce an additional stakeholder gathering for this next program year.
Higher Ed Consortium
The Tri-State Development Higher Ed Consortium brings together academic leadership from across the region to work together to assist in addressing important regional concerns. The purpose of the consortium is to align academic resources to help fuel academic research and participation in community-focused activities and initiatives.
Upcoming Meetings
Date and Time TBD