Starke County, Indiana

“These have been two huge projects we’ve taken on via state grants and our own bonds, and we’ve also done a lot of comprehensive planning. Looking at everything from land use, to capacities, to public facilities and services on the governmental side; and placemaking, economic development, and housing on the more citizen- facing aspect. Whether it’s a small project like painting our fire hydrants or a big $5 million infrastructure project, they all have an impact on creating a community that people want to live in and grow a business.” BVM: What are the major economic drivers in Starke County? Wickert: “Agriculture is the major one but we also have some companies that manufacture products for the steel industry across the U.S. and overseas. Our largest employer, MPI Products, produces parts for the automotive industry, and we have some trailer manufacturers. A good portion of our residents commute north to several other cities between us and Chicago. STARKE COUNTY , INDI ANA