named the Wanek Center, after the company founder. Ashley Furniture has also contributed to education initiatives in the community.“Even though they’re a global industry now, they really still appreciate their beginnings, and they have been great stewards in working with all of these small communities. They are incredible partners,” Glewen underscores. The success of Ashley Furniture is also reflected in community events like “Ashley for the Arts”. Over the years, this popular music and arts festival has grown from a modest community gathering to a major event, attracting visitors from neighboring states. Carlson recounts, “The level of bands that they’ve been able to bring in has risen, and now instead of maybe 2000 people watching a headliner, it’s like 45 to 50,000 on a festival grounds. But they’ve kept it affordable.” HEALTHCARE AND HOUSING A crucial part of Trempealeau County’s forwardthinking strategy is its commitment to strong infrastructure. In a region where rural healthcare often faces challenges, the recent completion of the Gunderson Tri-County Hospital and Clinics represents a major milestone. “They built a new hospital and clinic and then demolished the old, outdated hospital. That was a $50 million project,” Carlson details.“It’s proven that businesses want to locate, and people want to live in a place where you can get the care you need without having to travel. And that’s what we have. We’ve got a solid hospital and clinic providing many things people will need right here, centrally located in the county.” Reporting that Trempealeau County is projected to be the second fastest growing county in the state, with population growth of nearly 33% over the next 30 years, Glewen acknowledges the ongoing need to address affordable housing. “It’s not unlike every other place, but those are conversations that are continual and there’s a couple of projects that are moving through the stages to bring that forward,” she asserts. To address the issue, the county is exploring innovative solutions, such as leveraging Tax Incremental Financing districts to support 193 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 04 TREMPEALEAU COUNTY, WI
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