Strategic Planning Data Analysis: Neosha and Wilson Counties

Abstract

This report, commissioned for the Neosho and Wilson Counties strategic planning project, surveys some of the more significant demographic and economic trends in these two southeastern Kansas counties over the period from 1980 to the present time. Through contrast and comparison with nearby counties, relative strengths and weaknesses have been assessed.

About 27,000 people reside in the bi-county area--17,000 in Neosho County and 10,000 in Wilson. Only a little more than half are residents of the small towns in the area, leaving the two counties more rural in character than many others. Neosho and Wilson Counties are connected with three north-south U.S. highways (Routes 59, 75 and 169), one major east-west state highway (96), and four regional state highways. The counties' economies are heavily based on the declining farm sector, stable manufacturing and retail sectors, and growing service and government sectors. Manufacturing accounts for the largest proportion of the economic base, but the service and government sectors are growing more rapidly. Although overall employment and the number of firms have remained stable, the past decade's economic trends have indicated decline or stagnation in a number of areas. Levels and rates of growth of income and earnings continue to lag behind those of the state and non­metropolitan areas. Unemployment rates have remained relatively high and jobs have been lost in most sectors. During the 1980s, the population of Neosho and Wilson Counties continued to decline as part of a trend begun in the early part of the 20th century (despite growth during the 1970s). This decline is expected to continue at slower rates over the next thirty years. Along with other trends outlined below, these conditions present Neosho and Wilson Counties with considerable challenges that must be addressed constructively to ensure economic development now and in the future.