Spencer County, Indiana – In a decisive move to shape the future of economic opportunity in the region, Spencer County has formally established the Spencer County Economic Development Authority (SCEDA)—a dedicated organization created to lead, coordinate, and implement a proactive, long-term vision for economic growth. In tandem with this announcement, the County has released a draft of its new Economic Development Plan, which outlines a bold and actionable roadmap for creating a more resilient and prosperous Spencer County.
A Modern Framework for Economic Progress
The draft Economic Development Plan is the result of a year-long process involving extensive public engagement, data analysis, and strategic alignment with regional and state economic priorities. Grounded in local input and best practices, the plan sets forth a clear mission: to navigate economic shifts by empowering local businesses, attracting new industries, and preparing for workforce transitions—particularly in light of the upcoming closure of the AEP Rockport Plant.
At the core of the plan are three overarching goals:
- Reverse population decline
- Raise household incomes to meet or exceed the Indiana state average
- Prepare for long-term workforce and economic transitions
These goals are supported by five strategic focus areas:
Five Strategic Focus Areas
- Intergovernmental Collaboration & Modernization
Enhancing leadership capacity, transparency, and policy alignment across local governments to support smarter and more unified economic decision-making. - Infrastructure
Expanding and improving critical infrastructure—including roads, broadband, water, sewer, and stormwater systems—to support business growth, housing, and long-term resilience. - Business Recruitment & Attraction
Proactively marketing Spencer County as a competitive, business-ready location by preparing shovel-ready sites, deploying targeted incentives, and leveraging regional assets like the Ohio River and I-64 corridor. - Business Retention & Expansion
Supporting existing employers through a formal business outreach program, customized incentives, and initiatives to overcome workforce barriers such as child care and transportation. - Community Growth & Development
Fostering vibrant, livable communities through housing development, downtown revitalization, small business support, and enhancements to local parks, trails, and quality-of-life amenities.
Shaped by Community Voices
The development of the plan was informed by robust community outreach, including surveys, focus groups, and a county-wide forum that brought together more than 70 residents, business leaders, and local stakeholders. Their feedback emphasized the importance of housing, infrastructure, good governance, and attracting both talent and investment to ensure Spencer County thrives in the years ahead.
The Draft Plan aligns with broader initiatives such as the Indiana First Regional Growth Strategy and the Indiana 15 Regional CEDS, ensuring that Spencer County’s local priorities are connected to regional and statewide economic development efforts.
What’s Next?
The draft Economic Development Plan is now available for public review and comment through June 17, 2025. During this period, community members are encouraged to read the plan and share their feedback to help shape its final form. After the public comment period closes, Jonathan Blake, Senior Director of Planning at RJL Solutions, and project manager for the planning effort, will request formal adoption by the County Commissioners.
This process ensures that the plan reflects the priorities and aspirations of the community while setting a clear, coordinated course for Spencer County’s future growth and prosperity.
To view the plan and submit feedback, visit https://tinyurl.com/SpencerCoPlan or contact Jonathan Blake, Senior Director of Planning, by email at jblake@RJLSolutions.com or by phone at 317-225-6086.