When the calendar turns to December, I like to reflect on what was great about the past year, what we could have done better, and the people who helped us along the journey.
The Adams Economic Alliance began 2025 with an intentional focus on the future. At Vision 2025, held in January, we shared a renewed mission and vision for our work. Our mission reflects what we do every day — facilitating the future of Adams County by expanding economic opportunities, building strong partnerships, and pursuing thoughtful, community-based strategies. Our vision looks ahead. It outlines the role we aim to play in shaping the county’s future by leading diverse, responsible economic growth that strengthens our economy and improves the quality of life for all who live and work here.
Sustainability, workforce development, and business growth are not only core to Adams County’s strategy but also align with regional and statewide priorities.
One step the Alliance took towards achieving that goal was introducing Home Buyer Assistance loans, which lends $10,000 per applicant to assist with down payment or closing costs. As with any loan, there are several requirements, but the biggest one is that you must intend to live and work in Adams County. Our businesses need smart, dedicated employees to thrive.
We also supported business owners through the Spark Loan program, a revolving fund designed to spark investment and growth in Adams County.
The Alliance also participated in community-wide discussions focused on expanding Adams County Technical Institute. ACTI trains young people to join the workforce and earn competitive and sustainable wages without having to incur $100K in college debts. We look forward to continuing to be part of this conversation in 2026 and beyond.
When we talk about big projects, which often come with a large price tag or the potential disruption to the way of life to which we have become accustomed, conversations can get uncomfortable. That’s OK. Uncomfortable, but civil, discussions are vital to our growth as a community.
However, when advocacy is plagued by lies, innuendo, and personal attacks, one should look in the mirror and reflect. It’s the ugly side of working in the public sphere, and I hope the rhetoric cools as we enter the new year.
The Alliance’s 2025 successes are thanks to a community of people who believe in our work. I am ever so grateful for our staff who live and breathe our mission and vision–Kaycee Kemper, Brady Rodgers, and Wendy Kemper. Additionally, our board members, investors, and volunteers play an essential role. I am grateful to them every year, but this year I would like to briefly highlight three whose legacies deserve special recognition.
The first is a man whose death was marked through an entire column in March. Ron Hankey, the longtime president of Adams County National Bank, loved his community, church, and family. Ron’s involvement in Adams County’s economic development spanned at least 37 years, longer than the Adams County Economic Development Corporation had existed.
The second is a man whose death, like Ron’s, rocked our world.
A traffic crash on Dec. 1 claimed the life of James J. Marchione, CareerLink career advisor. I was blessed to encounter Jim’s commitment and big spirit almost every day for the past 25 years. Like Ron, Jim’s passing is a reminder that big initiatives are important but the people behind them carry much more value.
And lastly, I toast a woman who also believed in our organization before it existed. Barb Hartman’s mention in this column is on a much merrier note–-she is stepping back from serving on our board for 37 years to more fully enjoy life, family, and friends. Our board is honored to name Barb a director emerita. She is welcome at our meetings anytime but even when she is not there, the story of her dedication will serve as inspiration to all those who hold the many positions she proudly held over the decades.
Thanks, also, to you who take time to read this column each month and take time to learn about
our work in your community. I wish you all a wonderful holiday season and nothing but the best in 2026.
Robin Fitzpatrick is president of the Adams Economic Alliance.
